INVENTORY OF THE LAND CONSERVATION VALUES OF THE HOUTMAN ABROLHOS ISLANDS

Department of Fisheries

OCTOBER 2003 Inventory of the Land Conservation Values of the Houtman Abrolhos Islands

Coordinated by Jo McCrea

Final version: July 2003 Fisheries Management Paper No. 151 ISSN 0819-4327

Main Cover picture:

Keru Island (Wallabi Group) B. Bachman

This photograph may only be used for purposes expressly authorised by the Department of Fisheries. For any other usage, contact Bill Bachman on (03) 9882 2461.

Back Cover picture:

Noddies in flight. Dr Chris Surnam

Inset pictures:

L to R: Sea lion pup, environmental mooring - Turtle Bay, and sooty tern on Pelsaert Island. (Pics. Shaun Sims and Dr Chris Surnam)

DEPARTMENT OF FISHERIES 3rd floor, The Atrium 168 St George’s Tce, Perth WA 6000

Note that the information contained within this report have been gathered from literature and through consultations and are not necessarily the view of the Department of Fisheries Figures 4.1 to 4.68 were adapted from: A flora and vegetation survey of the Houtman Abrolhos, Western Australia, published in the Department of Conservation and Land Management’s CALMScience.

Inventory of the Land Conservation Values of the Houtman Abrolhos Islands Table of Contents

TABLE OF CONTENTS

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY...... v-vi

1. INTRODUCTION...... 1 A Brief Overview ...... 1 Policy Directives ...... 1 Objective of the Draft Review ...... 2

2. METHODOLOGY...... 3 2.1 Information/Data Gathering...... 3 2.2 Mapping and Interpretation of Information...... 3 2.3 Statement of Conservation Value...... 4

3. FUTURE MANAGEMENT PLANNING...... 5

4. CONSERVATION FEATURES ...... 6 4.1 Geology and Geomorphology...... 7 4.1.1 General ...... 7 4.2 Birds ...... 8 4.2.1 General ...... 8 Seabird breeding schedules and locations ...... 9 4.2.2 Management Considerations...... 10 4.3 Mammals & Reptiles ...... 11 4.3.1 Terrestrial Mammals...... 11 4.3.2 Marine Mammals...... 12 4.3.3 Reptiles ...... 13 4.3.3.1 General...... 13 4.4 Flora ...... 14 4.4.1 General ...... 14 4.4.2 Priority Flora ...... 14 4.4.3 Vegetation communities of special conservation interest...... 15 4.5 Fire, Introduced Flora and Fauna...... 16 4.5.1 General ...... 16 4.6 Historic and Cultural Sites...... 17 4.6.1 General ...... 17

5. SPECIFIC ISLANDS...... 20 5.1 General ...... 20

BIBLIOGRAPHY ...... 21-22

OTHER RELATED READINGS...... 22

Inventory of the Land Conservation Values of the Houtman Abrolhos Islands iii Table of Contents

FIGURES...... 23 Figure 1 Island Groups of the Houtman Abrolhos Island System...... 23 Figure 2 Map of Long Island showing the locations of seven tidal ponds ...... 24 Figures Location of major seabird breeding colonies, sea lion breeding 3a to 3d areas haul-out sites for: 3a North Island...... 25 3b Wallabi Group ...... 26 3c Easter Group...... 27 3d Pelsaert Group...... 28 Figures Significant vegetation communities of the Abrolhos Islands 4.1 to 4.68 (Abrolhos Islands Consultative Council, 1989)...... 29-74 Figure 5 Location of historic sites, guano mined areas and guano 5a to 5c mining rail/tram lines of the Abrolhos Islands (Abrolhos Islands Consultative Council, 1989): 5a Wallabi Group ...... 75 5b Easter Group...... 76 5c Pelsaert Group...... 77

APPENDICES ...... 75 Appendix A List of stakeholders consulted during the preparation of this report...... 79 Appendix B Summary table of conservation features of the Abrolhos Islands, including flora and fauna – their location, conservation significance, management implications, land access, and the source of the information on the feature...... 80 Appendix C List of islands in the Houtman Abrolhos, and seabirds recorded breeding on them (Appendix 1 in Fuller and Burbidge, 1994)...... 113 Appendix D Breeding chronology of 14 seabirds which breed in the Pelsaert Group (Surman, 1998)...... 119 Appendix E ‘Code of conduct’ for human visitation to Houtman Abrolhos seabird breeding colonies (Abrolhos Islands Consultative Council, 1995)...... 120 Appendix F Summary of ‘Guidelines for Managing Visitation to Seabird Breeding Islands’ (Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority, 1997)...... 122 Appendix G List of vascular plants found on the Wallabi Group of the Abrolhos islands, showing occurrence on each island...... 124 Appendix H ‘Code of conduct’ for visitors to Historical Sites at the Abrolhos Islands (Abrolhos Islands Consultative Council, 1995)...... 145

FISHERIES MANAGEMENT PAPERS ...... 148

iv Inventory of the Land Conservation Values of the Houtman Abrolhos Islands Executive Summary

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

There is growing pressure for increased development on the Houtman Abrolhos Islands (Abrolhos Islands). The number and variety of users of the islands is likely to increase in the coming years, particularly in light of the recently released Aquaculture Plan for the Houtman Abrolhos Islands (Fisheries Management Paper No. 137, Fisheries WA, 2000) and the Sustainable Tourism Plan for the Houtman Abrolhos Islands (Fisheries Management Paper No. 146, Fisheries WA, 2001). The terrestrial environment of the Abrolhos Islands has numerous features of high conservation value including significant fauna, flora, and geological and historical sites. It is important that these values are considered during the process of increasing visitor access and when evaluating any future development applications.

Much work on the natural, historical and cultural values of the islands has been undertaken. This document is a review of this work, which provides an overview of the conservation values of the islands, and should prove useful in considering the selection, design and evaluation of proposed developments at the Abrolhos Islands.

Based on existing information, the purpose of the Review of the Land Conservation Values of the Houtman Abrolhos Islands is to: • identify and map areas of conservation value (natural, historical and cultural); and • assess and document sites of conservation value.

Scope of review

The review considers the features of geology and geomorphology, birds, mammals, reptiles, flora, historic and cultural sites. The review also addresses threatening influences on the islands including fire and introduced flora and fauna.

The review summarises existing information on these features and makes statements relating to their management needs.

Island management plans

Some islands of the Abrolhos system, which have high conservation significance, require the development of an island-specific management plan or site management plan. This is necessary so that different conservation features found in the same location (such as the historic sites and fauna species on West Wallabi Island) can be managed in co-ordination.

Based on the conservation values reviewed in this report, islands requiring specific management plans are Pelsaert Island, West Wallabi Island, East Wallabi Island, Beacon Island, Wooded Island and Morley Island.

Future management planning

Following further investigations, it is proposed that the islands of the Abrolhos system be classified according to a permitted level of access. The permitted level of access for each island would be based on a cumulative assessment of all the values, as opposed to the individual assessment of each feature as is done in this review.

Inventory of the Land Conservation Values of the Houtman Abrolhos Islands v Executive Summary

An associated Fisheries Management Paper, entitled Recommendations of the Review of the Land Conservation Values of the Houtman Abrolhos Islands, will be published by the Department of Fisheries and consider the findings of this review and the framework above.

vi Inventory of the Land Conservation Values of the Houtman Abrolhos Islands Introduction

1. INTRODUCTION

There is growing pressure for increased development on the Houtman Abrolhos Islands (‘Abrolhos Islands’). The number and variety of users of the islands is likely to increase in the coming years, particularly in light of the Aquaculture Plan for the Houtman Abrolhos Islands (Fisheries Management Paper No. 137, Fisheries WA, 2000) and the Sustainable Tourism Plan for the Houtman Abrolhos Islands (FMP No. 146, Fisheries WA, 2001). The terrestrial environment of the Abrolhos Islands has numerous features of high conservation value including significant fauna, flora, and geological and historical sites. It is important that these values are considered during the process of increasing access and when evaluating any future development applications.

Much work on the natural, historical and cultural values of the islands has been undertaken. This document is a review of this work and provides an overview of the conservation values of the islands in a format useful to provide input into the selection, design or evaluation of proposed changes to access arrangements and/or proposed developments at the Abrolhos Islands.

A Brief Overview

The Abrolhos Islands are a complex of islands, reefs and lagoons, located at the edge of the continental shelf, approximately 60km offshore from Geraldton on the mid-west coast of Western Australia. The islands and surrounding waters are of recognised conservation significance in terms of the natural, historic and cultural environment.

There are three major groups of islands: North Island-Wallabi Group; Easter Group; and Pelsaert (Southern) Group – Figure 1.

The islands are geomorphologically diverse and contain important geological features. The flora includes a number of communities of conservation significance as well as important fauna. It is one of Australia’s most important seabird breeding areas and contains some of Australia’s most significant historic sites.

Marine areas of the Abrolhos Islands also have high conservation significance. The area is high in species richness and habitat diversity, with a unique blend of tropical and temperate species. It is also the site of the commercially valuable western rock lobster fishery, as well as fisheries for scallops and finfish.

Policy Directives

In December 1998, the Management of the Houtman Abrolhos System (FMP No. 117, Fisheries WA) was released by the then Minister for Fisheries. This document provides an overarching framework for the direction and management of the Abrolhos System.

The plan Management of the Houtman Abrolhos System contains 112 strategies, including many relevant to this review. Information contained within this Review of the Land Conservation Values of the Houtman Abrolhos Islands may be used in the implementation of these strategies.

Inventory of the Land Conservation Values of the Houtman Abrolhos Islands 1 Introduction

Strategies of relevance to this review are found in the following sections of the plan Management of the Houtman Abrolhos System: • Land-use Planning; •Terrestrial Flora and Fauna; • Introduced Flora and Fauna; • Fauna Management; • Historic and Heritage Sites; and •Tourism.

These strategies recommend additional surveys, reporting on management options, development of both strategic and specific management, and land use plans for development sites.

In the Sustainable Tourism Plan for the Houtman Abrolhos Islands (FMP No. 121, Fisheries WA, 2001), it was recommended that the environmental constraints of each terrestrial site needed to be determined and categorised based on permitted level of access. This document forms the first step towards achieving this recommendation by reviewing and collating existing information and identifying gaps in the information.

Objective of the Draft Review

Based on existing information, the purpose of the Review of the Land Conservation Values of the Houtman Abrolhos Islands is to: • identify and map areas of conservation value (natural, historical and cultural); and • document existing information on sites of conservation value.

2 Inventory of the Land Conservation Values of the Houtman Abrolhos Islands Methodology

2. METHODOLOGY

The preparation of the Review of the Land Conservation Values of the Houtman Abrolhos Islands involved the following three stages: 1. Information/Data Gathering; 2. Mapping and Interpretation of Information; and 3. Statement of Conservation Values.

These elements are described in more detail below.

2.1 Information/Data Gathering

Information gathering was based on a review of existing publications and research data, and consultation with informed Perth and Geraldton-based stakeholders. Stakeholders consisted of people and organisations known to have an interest, experience or knowledge of aspects of the Abrolhos Islands.

Where possible, original articles on the Abrolhos Islands have been obtained to ensure that data gathered is as accurate as possible and the source of information can be identified and recorded. Information obtained from referred scientific journals has been used in preference to the information contained in reports, strategies and management plans.

Information gathered from various documents was supplemented with information gathered from numerous stakeholders, particularly those who have had experience in research and management of the Abrolhos Islands. The purpose of the stakeholder consultation was: • to inform stakeholders that this review was being undertaken and to provide an opportunity for input; • for stakeholders to identify conservation areas on maps and provide details of the significance of these areas; and • for stakeholders to suggest appropriate management strategies and/or appropriate land uses to protect the conservation values of the islands.

Consultation took place by meetings and phone interviews. Stakeholders were also asked if they knew of other persons with relevant information on the Abrolhos Islands. Additional people were then either contacted by phone or included on the mailing list to be sent a copy of the draft version of the document for comment. Stakeholders consulted during the preparation of this report are listed in Appendix A. A draft of this document was reviewed by numerous stakeholders and experts during its development.

2.2 Mapping and Interpretation of Information

Information gathered from the literature review and consultation was reviewed and collated. These values were mapped using Arc View 3.0 on base maps provided by the Department of Transport.

Inventory of the Land Conservation Values of the Houtman Abrolhos Islands 3 Methodology

2.3 Statement of Conservation Value

Based on the information gathered, the conservation values of the islands, their sensitivities and possible threats were assessed and documented.

4 Inventory of the Land Conservation Values of the Houtman Abrolhos Islands Future Management Planning

3. FUTURE MANAGEMENT PLANNING

Following further investigations, it is proposed that the islands of the Abrolhos System be classified according to a permitted level of access. The permitted level of access for each island would be based on a cumulative assessment of all the values, as opposed to the individual assessment of each feature as is done in this review.

A possible framework for access management designed to maximise the protection of the conservation features of the islands is as follows: • Totally Closed Islands – Conservation is given the highest priority on these islands, which would be protected from human disturbance all year. • Restricted Visitation (Number of Occupants) Islands – Human visitation would be allowed on these islands, up to a defined carrying capacity. • Restricted Visitation (Seasonal Closure) Islands – Human visitation would be allowed on these islands at times of the year which are not likely to interfere with the values of the islands (for example, seabird breeding).

Islands currently inhabited by licensees of the western rock lobster fishery would most likely fall into the category of ‘restricted visitation (number of occupants)’.

An associated Fisheries Management Plan, entitled Recommendations of the Review of the Land Conservation Values of the Houtman Abrolhos Islands will be published by the Department of Fisheries and will consider the findings of this review and the framework above.

Inventory of the Land Conservation Values of the Houtman Abrolhos Islands 5 Conservation Features

4. CONSERVATION FEATURES

This section contains a summary of conservation features of the Abrolhos Island, under the following categories: • Geology and Geomorphology; • Birds; • Mammals and Reptiles; • Flora; • Fire, Introduced Flora and Fauna; and • Historic and Cultural Sites.

Each section contains general information about the feature concerned, their conservation significance and possible threats to them.

Appendix B contains a Summary of Conservation Values in a table format. This table summarises information on the conservation features, significance, management implications and land access for each island. The table contains seven columns containing the following information: • Island – the name of the island. • Category – the type of feature which has been identified. • Feature – a description of the feature. • Conservation Significance – a statement which describes the conservation value of the feature, according to the following criteria: A ‘High’ conservation value has been allocated to sites with: • features of national or international significance; • rare, vulnerable or threatened flora or fauna; and • features of special conservation significance. A ‘Medium’ value has been given to sites with features that are: • significant to the Abrolhos Islands; and/or • significant to the State, such as historic sites registered on State Heritage List; or • nesting areas of seabirds, which have conservation significance, but are well represented on other islands of the Abrolhos. Sites with limited conservation value (for example, an island which has previously been mined for guano and is now heavily developed with fisher’s camps) are described as having a ‘Low’ conservation significance. Some sites were not assigned a conservation significance category as not enough information was available to make a determination of their significance. • Management Implications – describes current or potential threats that could impact on the conservation value of the feature. • Land Access – recommendation on the appropriate level of permitted access in order to protect the conservation value from the identified threatening processes.

6 Inventory of the Land Conservation Values of the Houtman Abrolhos Islands Conservation Features

• Source – details of source (either a reference to the literature or to the stakeholder).

It should be noted that the conservation significance of a site can change over time. For example, the conservation value of a seabird colony on one island may increase if the seabird becomes threatened on another island, or in other parts of the world, or if seabirds increase their use of the area for nesting.

There are gaps in information on the conservation values of the Abrolhos Islands. Not all of the islands have been thoroughly investigated so an absence of information for a particular island doesn’t necessarily mean that the island is without conservation value. When considering any proposal for development, or change in visitation, each island should be assessed individually, with this review as a guideline. Further consultation and field investigations may be necessary.

The Review of the Land Conservation Values of the Houtman Abrolhos Islands will be updated in the future as more information becomes available or changes in conservation features or values occur.

Habitat protection is an important issue when considering wildlife protection, and attempts were made to include this information within the review.

Conservation features have been mapped and are referred to throughout the text.

4.1 Geology and Geomorphology

4.1.1 General

Studies of the surface geology and geomorphology of the Abrolhos Islands have been summarised in previous reports (Abrolhos Islands Consultative Council, 1989).

The Abrolhos Islands have two distinct periods of formation. The Central Platform islands (i.e. North, East and West Islands in the Wallabi Group; the Rat Island chain in the Easter Group; Gun, Middle and Murray Islands and the numbered islands in the Pelsaert Group) all contain emergent reef which formed during the last Interglacial period, around 125,000 years ago (Fisheries WA, 1998). The leeward islands, composed of coral rubble and present in all three groups are much younger, and have emergent reef foundations which are about 5,000 years old (Fisheries WA, 1998).

On several of the larger islands are relics of continental surfaces which retain moderately rich vegetation. These contain relics of mainland flora and fauna. Islands, such as West Wallabi, have a high conservation value because of the flora and fauna inhabiting the island. At the other extreme are islands that consist mainly of recent accumulations of debris cast up by storms from nearby reefs. These islands have little or no vegetation, so have little value in terms of vegetation. However, some of these structures are extremely important for seabird and seal breeding (Storr et al., 1986).

In previous submissions to the Abrolhos Islands Consultative Council, the WA Museum has indicated it had information on geological sites at the Abrolhos Islands of national and international significance. These sites need to be investigated, their conservation significance assessed, and appropriate management strategies and/or land uses need to be determined.

There are more than 50 tidal ponds at the Abrolhos Islands. Black and Johnson, (1997) examined the seven ponds that occur in Long Island in the Wallabi Group in 1994. These ponds range from small depressions in the shoreline beyond the high tide mark to one nearly 100 metres in length. The ponds provide a set of highly

Inventory of the Land Conservation Values of the Houtman Abrolhos Islands 7 Conservation Features

unusual habitats containing a distinctive fauna, including unusual molluscs, and are diverse in nature (Black and Johnson, 1997). Figure 2 shows the location of the tidal ponds on Long Island.

4.2 Birds

4.2.1 General

The Abrolhos Islands are among the most important seabird breeding islands in Australia and support significant breeding colonies of some species (Fuller et al., 1994). A summary of the birds of the Abrolhos Islands has been published by Storr et al., (1986). The islands are particularly important for the conservation of the following seabirds: •Wedge-tailed shearwaters; • Little shearwater; • Roseate tern; • Sooty tern; • Fairy tern; • Common noddy; • Lesser noddy; • Abrolhos painted button quail; and • Brush bronzewing.

In the Summary of Conservation Values (Appendix B) islands commonly used for breeding by these seabirds have been assigned a ‘High’ conservation significance.

Wedge-tailed shearwaters excavate their nest burrows in beds of sand/coral grit covered with saltbush (Atriplex cinerea) and also burrow in semi-consolidated dunes carrying Nitraria billardierei and Spinifex longifolius, but rarely lay in rock crevices (Storr et al., 1986). Dune areas and other sandy habitats should be protected to avoid disturbance to shearwaters and fragile vegetation (Surman, pers. comm.). The Abrolhos wedge-tailed shearwater colonies are by far the largest in the eastern Indian Ocean. The Abrolhos Islands also represent the northern limit of the breeding range for the little shearwater.

Roseate tern colonies may change significantly in size from year to year. The colonies may be located in the same place for consecutive years, or may vary significantly shifting from island to island. Breeding sites regularly utilised should be considered sensitive areas. The location of colonies can vary significantly.

Sooty terns are mainly susceptible to heavy predation on chicks and eggs by skinks, especially when disturbed (Surman, pers. comm.). The locations of the sooty tern colonies do not vary significantly.

The Abrolhos Islands are a breeding stronghold for fairy terns, which are comparatively rare in other areas of its distribution. Breeding sites regularly utilised should be considered sensitive areas.

When common noddy nests are disturbed, the young are exposed to predation by aerial and terrestrial predators (Surman, pers. comm.).

The lesser noddy is listed as “fauna which is rare, or likely to become extinct” under the (State) Wildlife Conservation Act 1950. The species is also listed as vulnerable in the Australian and New Zealand Environment

8 Inventory of the Land Conservation Values of the Houtman Abrolhos Islands Conservation Features

and Conservation Council (ANZECC) Threatened Australian Fauna list. The seasonal variation of this species is reported in Surman (1992).

The Australasian subspecies of the lesser noddy breeds only on three islands (Wooded, Morley and Pelsaert) in the Abrolhos Islands (Storr et al., 1986), nesting in mangrove trees. Lesser noddies are dependent on these nesting sites through the year, which affords importance to the mangroves. Islands where these birds are found and breed have also been given a ‘High’ conservation significance in the Summary of Conservation Values (Appendix B).

Little shearwater utilise dune areas and other sandy habitats. These areas should be protected to avoid disturbance to shearwaters and fragile vegetation (Surman, pers. comm.).

Other than those seabird species listed above, there are a number of other species that have conservation significance at the islands. These species are described below.

The Abrolhos painted button-quail is listed as ‘fauna which is rare, or likely to become extinct’ under the (State) Wildlife Conservation Act 1950. The species is also listed as vulnerable in the ANZECC Threatened Australian Fauna list. The painted button-quail is found on North Island and the Wallabi Group (East Wallabi, West Wallabi, Seagull and Pigeon Islands) (Storr et al., 1986). Their nests are a scrape in loose soil underneath vegetation. On West Wallabi, the bird favours low dunes covered with Spinifex longifolious and flats of coral grit wherever the halophytic shrubbery (Atriplex cinerea and Halosarcia halocnemoides) is relatively open. Islands where these birds are found and breed have also been given a ‘High’ conservation significance in Summary of Conservation Values (Appendix B).

The brush bronzewing is confined to North Island and the Wallabi Group (East Wallabi, West Wallabi, Tattler, Pigeon and Long Islands) (Storr et al., 1986). This species is common on North Island where the birds feed on the seeds of the littoral plant (Cakile maritima), and occasionally aggregate near water. They are uncommon to moderately common on other islands where they are found in all kinds of vegetation. The mainland populations of this species are decreasing (Abrolhos Islands Consultative Council, 1989).

The red-tailed tropicbird has been listed previously as a rare species but has now been taken off that list. It is mentioned here for recognition only.

There is a large colony of pied cormorants at the edge of the lagoon on Wooded Island. This colony is badly affected by visitors at times. Cormorant colonies are very susceptible to interference and should never be approached within 200 metres unless breeding is only at the egg or very small chick stage.

Seabird breeding schedules and locations

The vulnerability of seabird species to interference and disturbance from human activities differs depending on breeding habits, schedules and locations.

A knowledge of seabird breeding schedules can be used to ensure that seabirds are protected during their most vulnerable stages of breeding, by developing management strategies which prevent disturbance of their nesting sites.

Most islands in the Abrolhos Islands are used by birds for breeding. Figure 3 (a-d) shows the location of the most significant colonies in the Abrolhos Islands (Department of Fisheries, unpublished data). These maps show only the location of major, long-term seabird rookeries.

Inventory of the Land Conservation Values of the Houtman Abrolhos Islands 9 Conservation Features

Seabird species differ in their strategy for selecting breeding sites. Some seabirds (such as the lesser noddy) will return to the same nests year after year, whereas other birds (for example, fairy terns, roseate tern, crested tern, osprey, Pacific gull) do not have fixed breeding sites and may move their breeding place each year (Fuller and Burbidge, 1981). Due to this complexity, it is not possible to prepare a comprehensive map of seabird nesting sites which would show the location of all breeding sites for every year. Therefore, there will be many more breeding sites at the islands that are not represented in Figure 3.

Most seabirds at the Abrolhos Islands breed during spring/summer, but four species breed during autumn as well (Surman, 1998). The number of active breeders varies from year to year for all seabird species. However, for colonial species, such as shearwaters, noddies and sooty terns, breeding sites remain in the same areas (Surman, pers. comm.).

A list of seabirds recorded as breeding on each of the islands in the Abrolhos was prepared by Fuller and Burbidge in 1994 (Appendix C). This list describes the location of seabirds breeding during that particular study period.

Pelsaert Island supports the most diverse and dense number of breeding seabirds in the Abrolhos Islands and along the Australian coast, apart from the massive breeding populations of short-tailed shearwaters found on islands in south-east Australia (Chris Surman, pers. comm.). Thirteen species of seabird breed regularly on Pelsaert Island (Surman, 1998). Pelsaert Island has the largest breeding colonies of sooty terns, common noddies and lesser noddies in Australia. There is also a colony of Caspian terns which nest at Big Lagoon.

When disturbed by a plane, all of the birds (including nesting birds) fly off from their nests, leaving eggs and chicks vulnerable to predation. Birds also tend to regurgitate their food when scared or stressed. Areas that are off limits to aircraft are enforced by the Civil Aviation Safety Authority or by the Department of Fisheries. Currently, float planes land directly in the flight paths of these seabirds. Float planes landing at Pelsaert Island should land further out and motor in slowly to avoid this impact.

Surman (1998) recorded the timing of seabird breeding at the Pelsaert Group between 1993 and 1998. This information is essential when developing appropriate management strategies for any increase in visits to the Abrolhos Islands, as well as for existing user groups. Appendix D shows the breeding chronology of 14 seabirds which breed in the Pelsaert Group (Surman, 1998). The breeding seasons described in this figure include all activities from nest acquisition to the fledging or young.

Since it is difficult to predict the breeding locations of species from year to year, a more successful strategy may be to provide protection according to the known habitats which are used to make nests or lay eggs (Fuller and Burbidge, 1981; Fuller et al., 1994). Potential seabird breeding sites could be mapped according to the habitats on the islands. For example, potential breeding sites for wedge-tailed shearwaters could be identified by mapping sandy areas.

4.2.2 Management Considerations

The Abrolhos Islands Planning Strategy recommended that access to bird breeding areas should be restricted during breeding seasons (Abrolhos Islands Consultative Council, 1989). The Planning Strategy also recommended that restriction of flight paths for fixed wing and rotary aircraft during breeding seasons should be investigated in consultation with the Department of Planning and Infrastructure.

Guidelines for control/mitigation measures for aircraft disturbance on the Great Barrier Reef were prepared by the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority in 1997. These should be considered as part of an overall management plan for seabirds at the Abrolhos Islands.

10 Inventory of the Land Conservation Values of the Houtman Abrolhos Islands Conservation Features

Appendix E contains a code of conduct for human visitation to seabird breeding colonies (Abrolhos Islands Consultative Council, 1995). This provides guidelines for visitors to follow, to avoid detrimental impacts to seabird breeding colonies. This code of conduct should be actively distributed to all potential visitors of the islands.

Further information on appropriate conduct around seabird colonies may be found in a report by the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority, entitled Guidelines for Managing Visitation to Seabird Breeding Islands. The report details the range of human disturbance factors contributing to the vulnerability of breeding seabirds (Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority, 1997). A summary of this information is provided in Appendix F.

When considering the management of visitors, the way in which visitors move around the islands needs to be considered (Dunlop, pers. comm.). Different seabirds have different responses to human presence so a management framework should be developed based on how birds behave. The introduction of disturbance should be carefully managed and access should be controlled accordingly. At appropriate sites, infrastructure could be developed so that visitor patterns of movement allows birds to habituate.

Appropriate interpretation and signage is also required. There are examples of management of human visitation to other seabird breeding islands in WA, for example Lancelin Island and Penguin Island.

4.3 Mammals & Reptiles

4.3.1 Terrestrial Mammals

Only two species of indigenous land mammals have been recorded on the Abrolhos Islands – the tammar wallaby (Macropus eugenii derbianus) and the southern bush rat (Rattus fuscipes).

In the Summary of Conservation Values (Appendix B) the islands where the tammar wallaby and southern bush rat are found have been assigned a ‘High’ conservation significance.

Until 1998, the tammar wallaby was gazetted as “rare or otherwise in need of special protection” under the (State) Wildlife Conservation Act 1950. The tammar wallaby is a Priority 4 species on the CALM Priority Fauna List and the Western Australian population is listed as ‘Conservation Dependent’ in the ANZECC Threatened Australian Fauna List.

The tammar wallaby is found on East Wallabi, West Wallabi and North Island (introduced from the Wallabi Islands) (Abbott and Burbidge, 1995). Storr (1965) reports that the tammar wallaby population, on West Wallabi, inhabits the flats of shell grit where they hide during the day in tunnels through dense clumps of saltbush and samphire. They are also found on the pavement limestone communities (Storr, 1965). On East Wallabi Island, most animals were found in low scrub around the airstrip. Their principal source of water is from the vegetation on which they feed and from the old well (Storr, 1965).

Australia wide threats to the tammar wallaby are fox predation, loss of suitable thickets due to inappropriate fire regimes and vegetation clearing. Foxes have not been introduced to the Abrolhos Islands, so this is not a current threat.

The southern bush rat is found on East Wallabi and West Wallabi Islands (Abbott and Burbidge, 1995). The southern bush rat inhabits sandy country, well vegetated with Spinifex longifolious where they spend the day hidden in the bases of shrubs and tussock grass (Storr, 1965). The introduction of cats would threaten the southern bush rat.

Inventory of the Land Conservation Values of the Houtman Abrolhos Islands 11 Conservation Features

There is no information on the current population status of the tammar wallaby or the southern bush rat at the Abrolhos Islands. Future monitoring would be needed to identify any decline in these populations.

Management measures to protect both the tammar wallaby and the southern bush rat at the Abrolhos Islands should include management of vegetation on islands they inhabit, including restrictions on vegetation clearing. There never has been a formal fire management regime at the islands.

4.3.2 Marine Mammals

The Abrolhos Islands are at the northern limit of the Australian sea lion’s (Neophoca cinerea) Western Australian range (Storr, 1960; Gales et al., 1992). This species is one of the world’s rarest pinnipeds (Gales et al., 1994) and is listed as ‘in need of special protection’ under Schedule 4 of the (State) Wildlife Conservation Act 1950.

The small population of sea lions at the Abrolhos Islands is probably a remnant of a more substantial colony (Gales et al., 1992). Publications on historic aspects of the Abrolhos Islands have included accounts of sea lion colonies made by early visitors to the islands (described in Gales et al., 1992). Shipwrecked survivors from the Batavia are known to have killed large numbers of sea lions when they were camped on the islands in 1629. Survivors of the Zeewijk in 1727 killed 147 sea lions for food on islands of the Pelsaert Group. In 1843, the islands of the Wallabi Group were described as being thickly inhabited with sea lions.

The Australian sea lion has a 17-18 month breeding cycle off the west coast of Western Australia. Sea lion breeding sites are utilised at all times during their reproductive cycle, with maximum use occurring during the pupping season (Gales et al., 1992). Sea lions breed on low-lying limestone islands that are well protected by perimeter reef systems.

Sea lions haul out (come ashore to rest and breed) on beaches on the lee side of these islands. The interior of these islands support moderately heavy stands of the shrub Nitraria billardierei. These are used extensively by cows to give birth and provide shelter for their pups (Gales et al., 1994).

The most important areas for sea lion conservation at the Abrolhos Islands are the breeding islands. Human visitation to islands where sea lions are breeding should be avoided as these animals are highly sensitive to disturbance. The sea lions can also be aggressive during the breeding season (Gales et al., 1994). Due to the 17- 18 month breeding cycle, it is not possible to ban visitation to these islands at a consistent time each year. Rather, visitors should be aware of, and avoid, the islands likely to be used as breeding areas when visiting the islands at any time of year. In the Summary of Conservation Values (Appendix B) the islands used by sea lions for breeding have been assigned a ‘High’ conservation significance.

Visitation to islands with sea lion haul-out sites is less critical in terms of disturbance, although there have been significant detrimental effects from human visitation recorded in some places (Gales et al., 1994). Gales et al. (1994) report a case in which a beach was used extensively by sea lions for breeding and as a haul-out site. After its extensive use as an anchorage by fishers, sea lions were rarely seen. However, they also report a case where no detectable detrimental effect on sea lion numbers was recorded after large numbers of tourists visited a colony in supervised groups.

During four surveys of sea lion sightings at the Abrolhos Islands between July 1988 and October 1990 (Gales et al., 1992), most were recorded on islands in the Easter Group. Breeding, defined as presence of pups, was recorded at Serventy Island, Gilbert Island, Alexander Island and Suomi Island in 1989 (Gales et al., 1992). The

12 Inventory of the Land Conservation Values of the Houtman Abrolhos Islands Conservation Features

populations of sea lions at the Abrolhos is small and widespread and it is possible that other small pupping sites were overlooked.

Other islands where breeding sea lions have been observed are Keru Island, Square Island, Stick Island, Gibson Island, Gun Island, Morley Island and Wooded Island (Suckling, pers com).

Figures 3a-3d show the location of sea lion breeding sites and favourite haul-out sites for each island group. Sea lions probably haul-out on virtually all islands at one time or another, with some islands being favourite haul-out sites. In the Summary of Conservation Values (Appendix B) the islands with favourite haul-out sites have been assigned a ‘Medium’ conservation significance.

Although historic data show that sea lions were once abundant at the Abrolhos Islands, these populations have still not recovered to these reported levels. The reason for this needs further investigation (Gales, pers. comm.). Research is needed for both terrestrial and marine areas to determine if there are any processes which are threatening the Abrolhos Island sea lions. Long-term monitoring is required to determine the status of the Abrolhos Islands sea lion population.

4.3.3 Reptiles

4.3.3.1 General

Twenty six species of reptiles have been recorded at the Abrolhos Islands by the WA Museum. The Wallabi Group, particularly the islands of East and West Wallabi, have been identified as having the richest reptile assemblage of the island groups (Abrolhos Islands Consultative Council, 1989).

Particularly significant species are the Spiny-tailed skink (Ergenia stokesii stokesii), the carpet python (Morelia spilota imbricata) and the Abrolhos dwarf bearded dragon (Pogona minor minima).

The carpet python has been listed as “rare or otherwise in need of special protection” under the (State) Wildlife Conservation Act 1950. This species is also listed under Schedule 4 (Other Specially Protected Fauna) of the (State) Wildlife Conservation Act 1950 and as ‘Conservation Dependent’ in the ANZECC Threatened Australian Fauna List. The carpet python is found on East Wallabi and West Wallabi Island, and is common in all habitats (Storr, 1965).

The spiny-tailed skink has also been listed as “rare or otherwise in need of special protection” under the (State) Wildlife Conservation Act 1950. This species is also included on the Vulnerable Reptiles List of Environment Australia’s Endangered Species Program. The sub-species of the Houtman Abrolhos spiny-tailed skink is endemic to the Abrolhos Islands (Abrolhos Islands Consultative Council, 1989).

The Abrolhos dwarf bearded dragon is a Priority 4 species on the CALM Priority Fauna list meaning that this species is “declining but not yet threatened or in need of special protection”. This species is endemic to the Abrolhos Islands and has been recorded on Rat Island, East Wallabi, West Wallabi, Tattler and Pigeon Islands (Storr, 1965).

The main threats to reptile fauna would be disturbance of habitat, fire and predation from feral animals such as cats.

Inventory of the Land Conservation Values of the Houtman Abrolhos Islands 13 Conservation Features

4.4 Flora

4.4.1 General

A flora and vegetation survey of the islands of the Houtman Abrolhos by Harvey et al. (2001) lists 239 species of terrestrial vascular plants from a total of 68 families: 144 natives species from 55 families, and 95 introduced/naturalised species from 29 families (Table 1a, 1b and 1c, Appendix G).

Vegetation maps for the individual islands/islets of the Houtman Abrolhos were reproduced from Harvey et al. (2001) (Refer to Appendix G).

4.4.2 Priority flora

There are five species of flora found on the islands included in CALM’s Priority Flora list (see Table 2).

Table 2. Priority species found on the Abrolhos Islands (reproduced from Harvey et al., 2001).

Conservation Priority flora Occurrence Other population knowledge Code – Priority

Dirk Hartog Island, Tamala Acacia didyma 3 East Wallabi Island Station

Calocephalus East Wallabi Island, West Wallabi Port Gregory, Dorre Island, 3 aervoides Island Balladonia

Chthonocephalus 2 West Wallabi Island Shark Bay, Denham tomentellus

Eucla, Caiguna, Cape Leeuwin, Galium migrans 3 East Wallabi Island Margaret River, Cape Le Grand, National Park, Eastern States

Alexander Island, Bynoe Island, Campbell Island, Eastern Island, Rottnest Island, Dorre Island, Lepidium First Sister, Gilbert Island, Keru Boullanger Island, Garden Island, 4 puberulum Island, Leo Island, Little North Zuytdorp Cliffs, Dirk Hartog Island, Morley Island, Serventy Island Island, White Island

Conservation Codes are defined in Atkins (1998) as follows: • Priority 2 – Poorly Known Taxa: taxa which are known from one or a few (generally < 5) populations, at least some of which are not believed to be under immediate threat (i.e. not currently endangered). Such taxa are under consideration for declaration as ‘rare flora’, but are in urgent need of further survey. • Priority 3 – Poorly Known Taxa: taxa which are known from several populations (generally > 5), and the taxa are not believed to be under immediate threat (i.e. not currently endangered), either due to the number of known populations, or known populations being large, and either widespread or protected. Such taxa are under consideration for declaration as ‘rare flora’ but are in need of further survey.

14 Inventory of the Land Conservation Values of the Houtman Abrolhos Islands Conservation Features

• Priority 4 – Rare Taxa: taxa which are considered to have been adequately surveyed and which, while being rare (in Australia), are not currently threatened by any identifiable factors. These taxa require monitoring every 5-10 years.

4.4.3 Vegetation communities of special conservation interest

Vegetation communities of the Abrolhos Islands, of special conservation interest, are displayed in Figures 4.1 to 4.68 and include (Fisheries WA, 1998): • Mangrove community, ‘mangal’ (Avicennia marina). This rare and special plant community requires specific environmental conditions to survive. Mangals form highly productive communities and provide an important source of primary production of marine food chains, habitat for fish and breeding habitat for Australian sea lions and seabirds (especially the lesser noddy). Mangroves also protect shorelines from erosion and storm damage. Threats to mangrove communities include direct clearing, landfill, oil spills, dumping of rubbish and sewage disposal (causing nutrient enrichment) (Harvey et al., 2001). Rubbish from inhabited island and boats may pollute mangroves on adjacent islands (although there has been no formal studies to verify this). Shacks and jetties built on or near mangroves may have an adverse effect on the health of these mangrove communities. Mangrove communities are found on the following islands (Harvey et al., 2001): Wallabi Group: Akerstrom Island, “East Mangrove Island”, Marinula Island, Oystercatcher Island, Seagull Island, Tattler Island, Turnstone Island and West Wallabi Island. Easter Group: Alexander Island, Campbell Island, Keru Island, Little Rat Island, “Little Stokes Island”, Morley Island, Serventy Island, Suomi Island and Wooded Island. Pelsaert Group: Basile Island, Burnett Island, Burton Island, Coronation Island, “Coronation Islet”, Diver Island, Gaze Island, Iris Refuge Island, Jackson Island, “Little Jackson Island”, Newman Island, Pelsaert Island, Post Office Island, Robertson Island, Travia Island, Uncle Margie Island. • Atriplex cinerea dwarf shrubland. This vegetation occurs on sandy soils or shell grit. The deeper soils supporting them are suitable for burrowing seabirds, such as petrels and shearwaters to build nests. These breeding areas occur throughout the islands and are easily disturbed by humans walking through them. Threats to Atriplex communities include direct clearing, trampling by visitors, weed infestation, landfill, grazing by feral animals, fire and dumping of rubbish (Harvey et al., 2001). • Pavement limestone, dunes and unconsolidated dunes on North Island and East and West Wallabi Islands. These communities contain rich and diverse flora. They are highly sensitive to disturbance and have slow rates of regeneration. Threats to communities on pavement limestone, dunes and unconsolidated dunes include direct clearing, trampling by visitors, weed infestation, landfill, grazing by feral animals, fire and dumping of rubbish (Harvey et al., 2001). • Salt lakes and low saltbush flats. These communities are rare on offshore islands in south west Western Australia. Threats to salt lakes and low saltbush flats include direct clearing, trampling by visitors, weed infestation, landfill, grazing by feral animals, fire and dumping of rubbish (Harvey et al., 2001). • Eucalyptus oraria on East Wallabi Island. The Abrolhos Islands are the only islands south of Barrow Island and west of Albany on which this eucalyptus species occurs (Harvey et al., 2001).

These significant vegetation communities have been mapped for each island group in the Abrolhos Islands Planning Strategy (Abrolhos Islands Consultative Council, 1989).

Inventory of the Land Conservation Values of the Houtman Abrolhos Islands 15 Conservation Features

The bushy shrubs of Nitraria billardierei are used extensively as places for sea lion cows to give birth to and provide shelter for their pups (Gales et al., 1994). Mangrove communities are also important historically. Survivors of the Zeewijk cut wood for fires and for building their boat. (Myra Stanbury, pers. comm.).

A summary of this information relevant to conservation management has been provided for this report and is contained within the Summary of Conservation Values (Appendix B).

4.5 Fire, Introduced Flora and Fauna

4.5.1 General

The introduction and establishment of feral mammalian predators could have a significant impact on the native fauna of the Houtman Abrolhos Islands. Monitoring is required to ensure the early detection and immediate eradication of any introductions.

On Rat Island, there has been a local extinction of the formerly very large colonies of wedge-tailed shearwater, sooty tern and common noddy due to the combined effects of guano mining and the introduction of cats and rats (Fuller et al., 1994).

Rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus) were released on to Leo Island, Wooded Island, Middle Island and Pelsaert Island, but are now absent (Abbott and Burbidge, 1995). Rabbits are currently on Long Island and an eradication campaign should be undertaken, possibly using the calici virus.

House mice (Mus musculus) are established on Rat and North Island (Abbott and Burbidge, 1995). Black rats (Rattus rattus) were introduced to Pigeon Island and Rat Island, but are now absent (Abbott and Burbidge, 1995). Mice periodically occur on other islands.

Cats (Felis catus) were introduced to Rat Island around 1900 (Abbott and Burbidge, 1995). There may be at least one cat remaining on the island (O’Halloran, pers comm).

No jetty extension has been allowed at the West Wallabi Island settlement, ‘Westside’, to minimise the risk of vermin being introduced to the island (Fisheries WA, 1996). The Department of Fisheries policy is that no substantial jetty will be constructed at this location.

The noxious weed African boxthorn (Lycium ferocissium), present at the islands, is a dangerous trap for wildlife (for example, bird chicks) with its intricately branched spiny stems. Rigorous eradication should continue. Recently, the presence of ‘mother of million’ (Bryophyllum delagoense) and prickly pear was discovered at the islands.

The location of introduced flora and fauna have been included in the Summary of Conservation Values (Appendix B).

Fire risk would be much higher than at present if there was to be tourist visitation in summer. Visitors should be restricted to designated tracks and visits confined to daylight hours in an effort to reduce the chance of fire (Longman et al., in prep.).

Further introduction and spread of weeds, especially grasses that dry off in summer, would also lead to increased fire risk (Harvey et al., 2001).

16 Inventory of the Land Conservation Values of the Houtman Abrolhos Islands Conservation Features

There is currently a lack of signage at the Abrolhos Islands warning visitors of the risk of igniting fires (Surman, pers. comm.). Some sites are used regularly by visitors for campfires. In particular, a regular campfire site at the guano jetty on Pelsaert Island is located next to a sign indicating that the island is an A Class Reserve. The sign does not inform the public that camping/campfires are prohibited in A Class Reserves.

4.6 Historic and Cultural Sites

4.6.1 General

The historical and cultural environment of the Houtman Abrolhos Islands has been described in a number of publications (Green and Stanbury, 1988; Stanbury, 1991; Stanbury, 1993). The Abrolhos Islands have connections with the earliest periods of European history in Australia. They are the site of a number of historic shipwrecks, including the Dutch ships Batavia and Zeewijk. They are also the site of some of the earliest constructed European structures. During the colonial period, guano mining occurred on several of the Abrolhos Islands, extending to Pelsaert Island during World War II. During the 20th century, fisheries for rock lobster and finfish were developed.

Shipwrecks and associated land sites are protected under the (State) Maritime Archaeology Act 1973 and the (Commonwealth) Historic Shipwrecks Act 1976. Seven shipwrecks in the Abrolhos Islands are gazetted as historic shipwrecks under the (Commonwealth) Historic Shipwrecks Act 1976. These are: Batavia (1629), Zeewijk (1727), Ocean Queen (1842), Hadda (1877), Ben Ledi (1879), Marten (1879) and Windsor (1908).

The Western Australian Maritime Museum describes three categories of land sites that are considered to be worthy of protection: 1. Sites Associated with pre-European Settlement Shipwrecks (culturally unique, historically significant at a national and international level, earliest evidence of European settlements on Australian territories). The islands which are particularly associated with the Dutch wrecks are: West and East Wallabi Islands, Long Island and Beacon Island in the Wallabi Group; and Gun Island, Middle Island, Numbered Islands and Pelsaert Island in the Pelsaert Group. These sites are classified as having a ‘High’ conservation significance in the Summary of Conservation Values. 2. Sites Associated with Post-settlement or Colonial Period Shipwrecks (these are not culturally unique but significant in terms of maritime history of Abrolhos Islands, and to the broader colonial history of Western Australia). These sites were classified as having a ‘Medium – High’ conservation significance in the Summary of Conservation Values. 3. Sites Associated with Colonial Maritime Industries (such as guano mining). These sites are of historical, cultural and social interest (Green and Stanbury, 1988). These sites were classified as having a ‘Medium’ conservation significance in the Summary of Conservation Values.

Areas of significance not covered by the (State) Maritime Archaeology Act 1973 include: • sites associated with colonial maritime industries; • submerged and/or partially submerged jetties, wharfs, causeways; and • sites associated with historic events.

A code of conduct for visitors to historical sites at the Abrolhos Islands was prepared by the Western Australian Maritime Museum (Appendix H). This code of conduct was taken from the report Historic Areas of the

Inventory of the Land Conservation Values of the Houtman Abrolhos Islands 17 Conservation Features

Houtman Abrolhos (Stanbury, 1991) and also contains preliminary drafts for the development of on-site informative plaques which outline the significance, history, discovery and laws pertaining to the sites.

As stated in the code of conduct for historic areas, the following areas have ‘protected zone’ restrictions: • Beacon Island (Wallabi Group); • Long Island (Wallabi Group); •Traitors Island and small islets of Morning Reef (Wallabi Group); •West Wallabi Island (Wallabi Group); • Gun Island (Pelsaert Group); • Middle Island (Pelsaert Group); and • Pelsaert Island (Pelsaert Group).

Protected zone restrictions are that “visitors shall not carry out any digging or major earthworks within the zones around declared maritime archaeological sites unless permitted to do so”. Visitors shall also not “take metal- detecting devices into any of the designated historic areas without approval from the Executive Director, WA Museum”.

The location of historic sites, guano-mined areas and guano-mining rail/tram lines were mapped for each island group in preparation of the Abrolhos Islands Planning Strategy (Abrolhos Islands Consultative Council, 1989). This information is contained in this review as Figure 5a-c. Note that there were no historic sites mapped for North Island.

In 1982, the Western Australian Museum recommended that no (further) housing or accommodation be allowed (and removal of camps be undertaken in the longer term) on West Wallabi Island, Gun Island, Beacon Island, Long Island and the southern end of Pelsaert Island (1982). The camps on Gun Island have been removed and “unauthorised” digging has occurred (Owens, pers. comm.). The issue of removal of camps needs further investigation.

Stanbury (1993) identified and documented guano mining sites and historic sites associated with the early fishing industry in the Easter Group and recommended management strategies for particular sites. These are included in the Summary of Conservation Values (Appendix B). There is very little protection afforded to sites associated with the early fishing history of the Abrolhos Islands and consideration should be given to mechanisms through which these sites could be preserved.

The physical remains and remnants of the early fishing industries (finfish and rock lobster) have been researched and evaluated, and preliminary management criteria developed (Gray, 1993). Gray (1993) concluded that further research and formal documentation of specific sites associated with the rock lobster fishery is required. The report also states that there is a need to retain increasingly valuable heritage sites and materials. Significant ‘early’ camps should be set aside for preservation and restoration. These sites were not specified in the report as further assessment is required, although suggestions on methods to undertake this were provided.

The Summary of Conservation Values (Appendix B) contains information on the location, conservation significance, management implications and recommended access limitations for sites with historic and/or cultural significance.

Several important sites are discussed as dot points on the following page. Further information about these sites is contained in the original reports which are referred to herein.

18 Inventory of the Land Conservation Values of the Houtman Abrolhos Islands Specific Islands

• Gun Island – Gun Island contains the site of the Zeewijk (1727) survivors’ camps (containing artefacts, camp sites, burial sites and rock holes or ‘wells’). This site is historically significant at a national level. • Middle Island – Middle Island is a historical site containing stone structures, artefacts, non-European burial grounds, and the Venus (1861) shipwreck survivors’ refuge and burial site. The exact origin of the limestone structure and a stone tower is uncertain. • Middle Island – The well at the south eastern end of Middle Island, used by the survivors of the Zeewijk (1727), is a historical site of national and international significance. • Murray Island – The site of the well used by the Zeewijk (1727) survivors is a historical site of national and international significance. • Pelsaert Island – The settlement site, guano fields, guano-loading bay and chute, phosphate-loading wharf (no longer present), jetties, limestone causeway, quarry and wooden punt are historical sites of medium importance. • Pelsaert Island – The shipwreck survivors’ (from the Marten (1878) and Ben Ledi (1879)) encampment on Pelsaert Island is historically significant in terms of maritime history of the Abrolhos Islands and to the broader colonial history of WA. • Pelsaert Island – The sawn-off mangrove tree-stump artefacts deposit, and wreckage deposit, marks a site used by the survivors of the Zeewijk (1727). This a historic site of national and international significance. • Beacon Island – Beacon Island contains sites of the Batavia (1629) shipwreck survivors’ encampment, burial place or ‘graveyard’, cannon and other artefacts. The site was also used by the survivors of the Hadda (1877) shipwreck. This is a historical site of very high significance at national and international levels. • East Wallabi Island – East Wallabi Island is the site of the wells used by the survivors of the Batavia (1629), and is also a slaughter site. • Long Island – Long Island contains a site of Batavia survivors’ occupation and a slaughter site, as well as gallows and a mutineers’ prison. This is a historically significant site at national and international levels. •Traitor Island – Traitor Island was occupied by survivors of the Batavia shipwreck (1629). No archaeological evidence of this has been located to date. •West Wallabi Island – The slaughter point used by survivors of the Batavia (1629) is a historical site of national and international significance. This site contains two limestone structures. Limestone structure 1 is located at the Weibbe-Hayes encampment. Limestone structure 2 could have been built by Weibbe- Hayes or guano miners. •West Wallabi Island – West Wallabi Island contains fireplaces, middens, wells and other artefacts of medium to high conservation significance.

Inventory of the Land Conservation Values of the Houtman Abrolhos Islands 19 Specific Islands

5. SPECIFIC ISLANDS

5.1 General

Some islands of the Houtman Abrolhos, which have high conservation significance, require the development of an island-specific management plans or site management plan. In some cases, this is necessary so that different conservation features found in the same location (such as the historic sites and fauna species on West Wallabi Island) can be managed in co-ordination.

Based on the conservation values reviewed in this report, islands requiring specific management plans have been identified. These are: • Pelsaert Island; •West Wallabi Island; • East Wallabi Island; • Beacon Island; •Wooded Island; and • Morley Island.

These islands have features with a high conservation value in one or more categories, have attributes which attract visitors, and management and access issues which generally more complex than other islands.

Island-specific management plans should consider, but not be limited to, the following issues: • conservation of natural, historic and cultural values; • protection of the natural environment from fire and introduced flora and fauna, and other human impacts; • provision of access that does not adversely impact on conservation values; • management of public access and wildlife interaction so that conservation values are protected; • provision of opportunities for visitors to increase visitors knowledge and appreciation of Abrolhos Islands conservation features; • minimisation of wildlife disturbance; and • preparation of appropriate research and monitoring programs.

20 Inventory of the Land Conservation Values of the Houtman Abrolhos Islands Bibliography

BIBLIOGRAPHY

Abrolhos Islands Consultative Committee (1989). Abrolhos Islands Planning Strategy. Final Report, Prepared by the Abrolhos Islands Consultative Council.

Abrolhos Islands Consultative Council (1995). Tourism at the Abrolhos Islands, Final Report, Abrolhos Islands Consultative Council.

Fisheries Western Australia (1998). Management of the Houtman Abrolhos System, Fisheries Western Australia, Fisheries Management Paper No. 117.

Fisheries Western Australia (2000) Aquaculture Plan for the Houtman Abrolhos Islands, Fisheries Management Paper No. 137.

Fisheries Western Australia (2001) Sustainable Tourism Plan for the Houtman Abrolhos Islands, Fisheries Management Paper No. 146.

Mid-West Regional Development Committee (1982). A Report on the Houtman Abrolhos, Geraldton Mid-West Regional Development Committee.

Abbott, I. and A. A. Burbidge (1995). “The occurrence of mammal species on the islands of Australia: a summary of existing knowledge.” CALMScience 1(3): 259-324.

Atkins, K.J. (1998). Declared Rare ad Priority Flora List. The Department of Conservation and Land Management, Kensington, Western Australia.

Guidelines for Managing Visitation to Seabird Breeding Islands, Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority. (1997).

Beard, J.S. (1981). Vegetation survey of Western Australia – Swan. University of Western Australia Press, Nedlands.

Black, R. and M. S. Johnson (1997). Tidal ponds: unusual habitats characteristic of the Houtman Abrolhos Islands. The Marine Flora and Fauna of the Houtman Abrolhos Islands, Western Australia. F. E. Wells. Perth, Western Australian Museum: 47-61.

Fuller, P. J. and A. A. Burbidge (1981). The Birds of Pelsaert Island, Western Australia, Department of Fisheries and Wildlife, Perth, Western Australia.

Fuller, P. J., Burbidge, A. A. and Owens, R. (1994). “Breeding Seabirds of the Houtman Abrolhos, Western Australia.” Corella 18(4): 97-113.

Gales, N. J., Cheal, A., Pobar, G.J, and Williamson, P. (1992). “Breeding Biology and Movements of Australian Sea-lions, Neophoca Cinerea off the West Coast of Western Australia.” Wildlife Research 19: 405-416.

Gales, N. J., Shaughnessy, P.D, and Dennis, T.E. (1994). “Distribution, abundance and breeding cycle of the Australian sea lion Neophoca cinerea (Mammalia: Pinnipedia).” J. Zool., Lond. 234: 353-370.

Gray, H. (1993). Houtman Abrolhos Islands – Cultural Heritage. Prepared for the Abrolhos Islands Consultative Council.

Inventory of the Land Conservation Values of the Houtman Abrolhos Islands 21 Other Related Readings

Green, G.A. & Stanbury, M. (1988.) Report and Recommendations on Archeological Sites in the Houtman Abrolhos. Report: Department of Maritime Archaeology, Western Australian Museum, No. 29, 1988.

Harvey, J.M., Alford, J.J., Longman, V.M. and Keighery, G.J. (2001). A flora and vegetation survey of the Houtman Abrolhos, Western Australia. CALMScience 3(4): 521-623.

Owens, R. (1996). The Abrolhos Islands – A Hazard Assessment, Fisheries Western Australia.

Stanbury, M. (1993). Historical Sites of the Easter Group, Houtman Abrolhos, WA. Report: Department of Maritime Archaeology, Western Australian Museum, No. 66.

Stanbury, M. (1991). Historic areas of the Houtman Abrolhos. Code of Conduct recommendations for visitors to the Islands, Department of Maritime Archaeology, Western Australian Maritime Museum.

Storr, G. M. (1960). “The Physiography, Vegetation and Vertebrate Fauna of North Island, Houtman Abrolhos.” Journal and Proceedings of the Royal Society of Western Australia 43(2): 59-62.

Storr, G. M. (1965). “The Physiography, Vegetation and Vertebrate Fauna of the Wallabi Group, Houtman Abrolhos.” Journal and Proceedings of the Royal Society of Western Australia 48: 1-14.

Surman, C. A. (1992). Seasonal and Spatial Variation in the Reproductive Biology of the Lesser Noddy Anous tenuirostris melanops Gould on Pelsaert Island, Western Australia, Murdoch University.

Surman, C. A. (1998). “Seabird breeding Schedules at the Pelsaert Group of islands, Houtman Abrolhos, Western Australia between 1993 and 1998.” Records of the Western Australian Museum 19: 209-215.

OTHER RELATED READINGS

Abrolhos Islands Consultative Council (1992). Abrolhos Islands Planning Issues. Proposals for public comment, Abrolhos Islands Consultative Council.

Storr, G. M., R. E. Johnstone, and Griffin, P. (1986). “Birds of the Houtman Abrolhos, Western Australia.” Records of the Western Australian Museum Supplement No. 24.

22 Inventory of the Land Conservation Values of the Houtman Abrolhos Islands Figures

Figures

Fig. 1. Island Groups of the Abrolhos Island System.

Inventory of the Land Conservation Values of the Houtman Abrolhos Islands 23 Figures

Fig. 2. Map of Long Island showing the locations of the seven tidal ponds.

24 Inventory of the Land Conservation Values of the Houtman Abrolhos Islands Figures

Fig. 3a. Location of major seabird breeding colonies, sea lion breeding areas and haulout sites for North Island (Fisheries WA, unpublished data, with modifications by N. Gales, CALM and C. Surman, Murdoch University).

Inventory of the Land Conservation Values of the Houtman Abrolhos Islands 25 Figures

Fig. 3b. Location of major seabird breeding colonies, sea lion breeding areas and haulout sites within the Wallabi group (Fisheries WA, unpublished data, with modifications by N. Gales, CALM and C. Surman, Murdoch University).

26 Inventory of the Land Conservation Values of the Houtman Abrolhos Islands Figures

Fig. 3c. Location of major seabird breeding colonies, sea lion breeding areas and haulout sites within the Easter group (Fisheries WA, unpublished data, with modifications by N. Gales, CALM and C. Surman, Murdoch University).

Inventory of the Land Conservation Values of the Houtman Abrolhos Islands 27 Figures

Fig. 3d. Location of major seabird breeding colonies, sea lion breeding areas and haulout sites within the Pelsaert group (Fisheries WA, unpublished data, with modifications by N. Gales, CALM and C. Surman, Murdoch University).

28 Inventory of the Land Conservation Values of the Houtman Abrolhos Islands Figures

Figures 4.1 to 4.68

The following vegetation maps for the Houtman Abrolhos islands were reproduced from Harvey et al. 2001. The maps were adapted from: A flora and vegetation survey of the Houtman Abrolhos, Western Australia, published in the Department of Conservation and Land Managements’s CALM Science. Table A lists mapped islands/islets arranged alphabetically (whenever possible) for each island group: Wallabi, Easter and Pelsaert. Each island is referenced against its figure number, page number and the accuracy of the vegetation mapping (reproduced from Harvey et al. 2001).

Mapping of vegetation was based on the Beard’s (1981) vegetation classification (see Table B, reproduced from Harvey et al., 2001). This classification describes vegetation on the basis of two characteristics: nature/height of the dominant stratum and the density of strata in the above. Dominant plant species are indicated and coded (refer to Table C, reproduced from Harvey et al., 2001). Where there are two or more strata the code is given as a string: e.g. nSr a2mZc xFi – which stand for: n (dominant species, refer to Table C) Sr (vegetation classification code, refer to Table B) – Nitraria billardierei Open scrub.

Similarly, “a2mZc”- stands for Atriplex spp., Myoporum insulare Heath or “xFi” – mixed species list (usually listed in map caption) Herbfield.

Different surfaces are indicated with the codes: B – beach; BG – bare ground; C – coral rubble; D – disturbed areas; L – lagoons; R – rock; S – sinkhole.

Table A. List of vegetation maps: figure numbers and accuracy codes for the islands and islets of the Houtman Abrolhos. Accuracy codes for vegetation mapping are defined by Harvey et al., 2001 as follow: Code Accuracy description 1 Interpretation of aerial photograph (stereo pairs and/or large scale) only. 2 Interpretation of aerial photograph, limited species lists and limited notes. 3 Interpretation of aerial photograph, species lists and detailed written descriptions. 4 Interpretation of aerial photograph, species lists, written descriptions, mud maps and some photos. No field verification. 5 Interpretation of aerial photograph, species lists, written descriptions, mud maps and some photos. Some field verification. 6 Comprehensive field verification by Harvey and Longman. Island name Fig. Page Accu- Island name Fig. Page Accu- Island name Fig. Page Accu- No. No. racy No. No. racy No. No. racy WALLABI EASTER PELSAERT GROUP GROUP GROUP Akerstrom Island 4.1 33 6 Alexander Island 4.25 45 4 Arthur Island 4.43 58 5 Alcatraz Island 4.2 33 6 “Alexander Islet 1” 4.25 45 5 Basile Island 4.44 58 4 Barge Rock 4.3 33 6 “Alexander Islet 2” 4.25 45 1 Burnett Island 4.45 59 4 Beacon Island 4.4 34 6 Bushby Island 4.36 53 6 “Burnett Islet 1” 4.45 59 1 Dakin Island 4.5 35 6 Bynoe Island 4.26 46 5 “Burnett Islet 2” 4.45 59 1 Dick Island 4.6 35 6 “Bynoe Islet 1” 4.26 46 1 Burton Island 4.46 59 4 “Eagle Point Islet” 4.7 36 6 “Bynoe Islet 2” 4.26 46 1 Coronation Island 4.47 60 4 Eastern Island 4.8 36 6 “Bynoe Islet 3” 4.26 46 1 “Coronation Islet” 4.47 60 1 “East Mangrove Island” 4.1 33 6 “Bynoe Islet 4” 4.26 46 1 Davis Island 4.48 61 4

Inventory of the Land Conservation Values of the Houtman Abrolhos Islands 29 Figures

Island name Fig. Page Accu- Island name Fig. Page Accu- Island name Fig. Page Accu- No. No. racy No. No. racy No. No. racy WALLABI EASTER PELSAERT GROUP (cont’d) GROUP (cont’d) GROUP (cont’d) East Wallabi Island 4.7 36 5 Campbell Island 4.2747 4 Diver Island 4.49 61 1 Far Island 4.9 37 6 “Campbell Islet” 4.27 47 1 Eight Island 4.48 61 4 “Far Islet 1” 4.9 37 1 Crake Island 4.28 48 4 Foale Island 4.50 62 5 “Far Islet 2” 4.9 37 1 Disappearing Island 4.29 48 5 Gaze Island4.51 63 4 First Sister 4.10 37 6 Dry Island 4.38 55 5 “Gaze Islet 1” 4.51 63 4 “First Sister Islet” 4.10 37 6 Gibson Island 4.30 49 5 “Gaze Islet 2” 4.51 63 1 “G Island” 4.11 37 6 Gilbert Island 4.25 45 5 “Gaze Islet 3” 4.51 63 1 Hall Island 4.5 35 6 “Gilbert Islet 1” 4.25 45 1 Gregory Island 4.43 58 5 Little Pigeon Island 4.2 33 6 “Gilbert Islet 2” 4.25 45 1 Gun Island 4.52 64 4 Long Island 4.12 38 6 “Gilbert Islet 3” 4.25 45 1 “Gun Islet” 4.52 64 5 Marinula Island 4.1 33 6 “Gilbert Islet 4” 4.25 45 1 Hummock Island 4.53 65 4 “Naturalist Island” 4.10 37 6 Helms Island 4.31 50 4 Iris Refuge Island 4.50 62 4 North Island 4.13 39 6 “Helms Islet 1” 4.31 50 1 Jackson Island 4.54 65 4 Oystercatcher “Jackson Islets” Island 4.14 40 6 “Helms Islet 2” 4.31 50 4 (7 islets) 4.54 65 1 Pelican Island 4.15 41 6 Joe Smith Island 4.32 50 4 Jon Jim Island 4.55 66 4 Pigeon Island 4.16 41 6 Keru Island 4.33 51 4 Lagoon Island 4.56 66 4 “Landscope “Little Jackson Plover Island4.17 41 6 Island” 4.31 51 5 Island” 4.54 65 4 Saville-Kent Island 4.5 35 6 Leo Island 4.34 52 6 Middle Island 4.57 67 4 Seagull Island 4.14 40 6 “Leo Islet 1” 4.34 52 6 Murray Island 4.58 67 5 Seal Island 4.11 37 6 “Leo Islet 2” 4.34 52 5 Newbold Island 4.50 62 1 Second Sister 4.18 42 6 Little North Island 4.35 52 4 Newman Island 4.59 68 3 Shag Rock 4.19 42 6 Little Rat Island 4.36 53 6 “Newman Islet 1” 4.59 68 1 “Shag Rock” 4.13 39 4 Little Roma Island 4.38 55 2 “Newman Islet 2” 4.59 68 1 “Little Stokes “Short Island” 4.12 38 6 Island” 4.31 50 4 Nook Island 4.60 68 4 Tattler Island 4.20 42 6 Morley Island 4.28 48 4 One Island 4.48 61 4 “Tectus Island” 4.10 37 6 “Morley Islet” 4.28 48 1 Pelsaert Island 4.61 69/70 5 Third Sister 4.21 42 6 “Nitraria Island” 4.31 50 5 Post Office Island 4.62 71 3 Traitors Island 4.22 43 6 Rat Island 4.37 54 6 “Post Office Islet” 4.62 71 1 “Traitors Islet 1” 4.22 43 6 “Rat Islet” 4.37 54 1 Robertson Island 4.50 62 4 “Traitors Islet 2” 4.22 43 6 Roma Island 4.38 55 6 Rotondella Island 4.56 66 4 “Rotondella “Traitors Islet 3” 4.22 43 6 “Roma Islet” 4.38 55 1 Islet 1” 4.56 66 1

30 Inventory of the Land Conservation Values of the Houtman Abrolhos Islands Figures

Island name Fig. Page Accu- Island name Fig. Page Accu- Island name Fig. Page Accu- No. No. racy No. No. racy No. No. racy WALLABI EASTER PELSAERT GROUP (cont’d) GROUP (cont’d) GROUP (cont’d) “Rotondella “Traitors Islet 4” 4.22 43 6 Sandy Island 4.39 56 5 Islet 2” 4.56 66 1 “Traitors Islet 5” 4.22 43 6 Serventy Island 4.30 49 5 Sandy Island 4.63 72 5 “Traitors Islet 6” 4.22 43 6 “Serventy Islet 1” 4.30 49 1 Seven Island 4.48 61 4 Turnstone Island 4.14 40 6 “Serventy Islet 2” 4.30 49 1 “Seven Islet” 4.48 61 4 Wann Island 4.23 43 6 “Serventy Islet 3” 4.30 49 1 Ship Rock 4.64 4 West Wallabi Island 4.24 44 6 Shearwater Island 4.40 56 5 Sid Liddon Island 4.48 61 4 “Shearwater Islet” 4.40 56 5 Square Island 4.65 72 5 Stokes Island 4.31 50 4 Stick Island 4.66 73 4 Suomi Island 4.33 51 4 Sweet Island 4.48 61 4 The Coral Patches Tapani Island 4.31 50 5 (13 Islets) 4.67 73 2 White Bank 4.37 54 3 Three Island 4.48 61 White Island 4.41 57 4 Travia Island 4.51 63 “White Islet” 4.41 57 1 Two Island 4.48 61 Uncle Margie Wooded Island 4.42 57 4 Island 4.68 74 “Uncle Margie Islet” 4.68 74

Table B. The classification scheme used for vegetation mapping (Harvey et al., 2001)

Life Form/ d: Dense canopy. c: Mid-dense i: Incomplete r: Sparse canopy. p: Very sparse Height Class Projective foliage canopy. canopy. Projective foliage canopy. cover > 70% Projective foliage Projective foliage cover < 10% Projective foliage cover 30-70% cover 10-30% cover 0%

L: Low trees Ld: Dense Lc: Low Li: Low Lr: Open Lp: Sparse < 10 m low forest forest woodland Low low woodland woodland S: Shrubs >1 Sd: Dense Sc: Thicket Si: Scrub Sr: Sr: Open Sp: Sparse m tall thicket Open scrub scrub scrub Z: Dwarf Zd: Dense Zc: Heath Zi: Dwarf Zr: Open Zp: Sparse shrubs < 1 m heath scrub dwarf scrub dwarf scrub tall G: Bunch Gd: Dense Gc: Mid- Gi: Grassland Gr: Open Gp: Sparse grasses, grassland dense grassland grassland sedges grassland F: Forbs Fd: Dense Fc: Mid- Fi: Herbfield Fr: Open Fp: Sparse herbfield dense herbfield herbfield herbfield C: Succulents Cc: Closed Ci: Succulent Cr: Open Cp: Sparse succulent mat mat succulent mat succulent mat

Inventory of the Land Conservation Values of the Houtman Abrolhos Islands 31 Figures

Table C. Dominant plant species codes used in vegetation mapping on Figures 4.1-4.68. When the letter x is used with bunch grass (G) or forbs (F), it indicates mixed species, which differ for each map and are listed in the map caption (reproduced from Harvey et al. 2001).

Life Form/ Height Class Code Plant species

S: Shrubs > 1 m tall a2 Atriplex spp. a Avicennia marina d Diplolaena grandiflora e3 Eucalyptus oraria h Halosarcia halocnemoides m Myoporum insulare n Nitraria billardierei o Olearia axillaris p Pittosporum phylliraeoides r Rhagodia spp. s6 Scaevola crassifolia x1 East Wallabi pavement limestone species (listed on relevant map) x2 East Wallabi consolidated dunes species (listed on relevant map)

Z: Dwarf shrubs <1 m tall a2 Atriplex spp. a Avicennia marina c2 *SCakile maritime d Diplolaena grandiflora e Enchylaena tomentosa e2 Eremophila glabra f Frankenia pauciflora g Grevillea argyrophylla h Halosarcia halocnemoides h2 Hibbertia racemosa m3 Muellerolimon salicorniaceum m Myoporum insulare n Nitraria billardierei o Olearia axillaries p2 Pimelea microcephala p Pittosporum phylliraeoides r Rhagodia spp. s4 Sarcostemma viminale s6 Scaevola crassifolia t Threlkeldia diffusa w Westringia dampieri x1 East Wallabi pavement limestone species (listed on relevant map) x2 East Wallabi consolidated dunes species (listed on relevant map) x3 West Wallabi pavement limestone species (listed on relevant map) x2 North Island consolidated dunes species (listed on relevant map)

G: Bunch grasses b Bromus spp. (introduced and/or native) s Spinifex longifolius x Mixed, species listed

F: Forbs s2 Senecio lautus u Urospermum picroides x Mixed, species list C: Succulent c Carpobrotus virescens h Halosarcia indica m2 Mesembryanthemum crystallinum s3 Sarcocornia quinqueflora s5 Suaeda australis x Mixed, species listed

32 Inventory of the Land Conservation Values of the Houtman Abrolhos Islands Figures

Fig. 4.1. Vegetation map of Akerstrom Island, “East Mangrove Island”, Marinula Island – Wallabi Group. For Akerstrom Island: x of xGi and xGr includes Eragrostis dielsii, Setaria dielsii.

Fig. 4.2. Vegetation map of Alcatraz Island, Little Pigeon Island – Wallabi Group. For Little Pigeon Island: x of xFr includes *Conyza bonariensis, *Euphorbia tannensis subsp. eremophila, *Medicago polymorpha, Senecio lautus. For Little Pigeon Island: x of xGr includes *Avena barbata, Bromus sp., *Hordeum leporinum, *Lolium rigidum, *Polypogon monspeliensis, Setaria dielsii.

Fig. 4.3. Vegetation map of Barge Rock – Wallabi Group. For Barge Rock: x of xGr includes Bromus sp., *Ehrharta longiflora, Setaria dielsii.

Inventory of the Land Conservation Values of the Houtman Abrolhos Islands 33 Figures

Fig. 4.4. Vegetation map of Beacon Island – Wallabi Group. For Beacon Island: x of xFr includes *Sisymbrium orientale, *Sonchus oleraceus. For Beacon Island: x of xGFr includes *Avena sp., Bromus sp., *Poa annua, *Sisymbrium orientale, *Sonchus oleraceus.

34 Inventory of the Land Conservation Values of the Houtman Abrolhos Islands Figures

Fig. 4.5. Vegetation map of Dakin Island, Hall Island, Saville-Kent Island – Wallabi Group.

Fig. 4.6. Vegetation map of Dick Island – Wallabi Group.

Inventory of the Land Conservation Values of the Houtman Abrolhos Islands 35 Figures

Fig. 4.7. Vegetation map of “Eagle Point Islet”, East Wallabi Island – Wallabi Group. On East Wallabi Island: x1 denotes pavement limestone species (Capparis spinosa, Exocarpos aphyllus, Grevillea argyrophylla, Hibbertia racemosa, Pimelea microcephala)

On East Wallabi Island: x2 denotes consolidated dunes species (x1 species plus Acacia didyma, Alyxia buxifolia, Bossiaea spinescens, Dodonaea spp., Lasiopetalum angustifolium, Leucopogon insularis, Mirbelia ramulosa, Ptilotus divaricatus).

Fig. 4.8. Vegetation map of Eastern Island – Wallabi Group. For Eastern Island: x of xGi denotes mixed grasses (species not specified).

36 Inventory of the Land Conservation Values of the Houtman Abrolhos Islands Figures

Fig. 4.9. Vegetation map of Far Island, “Far Islet 1”, “Far Islet 2” – Wallabi Group.

Fig. 4.10. Vegetation map of First Sister, “First Sister Islet”, “Naturalist Island”, “Tectus Island” – Wallabi Group. For First Sister: x of xGi includes Bromus arenarius, Setaria dielsii.

Fig. 4.11. Vegetation map of “G Island”, Seal Island – Wallabi Group.

Inventory of the Land Conservation Values of the Houtman Abrolhos Islands 37 Figures

Fig. 4.12. Vegetation map of Long Island, “Short Island” – Wallabi Group. For Long Island: x of xGr includes Bromus arenarius, Setaria dielsii.

38 Inventory of the Land Conservation Values of the Houtman Abrolhos Islands Figures

Fig. 4.13. Vegetation map of “Shag Rock”, North Island – Wallabi Group. On North Island: x4 denotes consolidated dunes species (Exocarpos aphyllus, Myoporum insulare, Pimelea microcephala, Olearia axillaries, Rhagodia sp., Scaevola crassifolia, Threlkeldia diffusa).

Inventory of the Land Conservation Values of the Houtman Abrolhos Islands 39 Figures

Fig. 4.14. Vegetation map of Oystercatcher Island, Seagull Island, Turnstone Island – Wallabi Group. For Oystercatcher Island: x of xFr includes Senecio lautus, *Sonchus oleraceus, *Urospermum picroides. For Seagull Island: x of xGFc includes *Bromus sp., Senecio lautus, *Urospermum picroides. For Turnstone Island: x of xGi includes Austrostipa elegantissima, Bromus sp., Setaria dielsii.

40 Inventory of the Land Conservation Values of the Houtman Abrolhos Islands Figures

Fig. 4.15. Vegetation map of Pelican Island – Wallabi Group. For Pelican Island: x of xGr denotes mixed grasses (species not listed).

Fig. 4.16. Vegetation map of Pigeon Island – Wallabi Group. For Pigeon Island: x of xGFi denotes introduced grasses, garden plants and weeds, including *Bromus sp., *Bryophyllum sp., *Nicotiana glauca, Setaria dielsii, *Solanum nigrum, *Sonchus oleraceus, *Tamarix sp.

Fig. 4.17. Vegetation map of Plover Island – Wallabi Group.

Inventory of the Land Conservation Values of the Houtman Abrolhos Islands 41 Figures

Fig. 4.18. Vegetation map of Second Sister Island – Wallabi Group.

Fig. 4.19. Vegetation map of Shag Rock – Wallabi Group.

Fig. 4.20. Vegetation map of Tattler Island – Wallabi Group. For Tattler Island: x of xGFi includes *Avena sp., *Centaurium spicatum, Senecio lautus, Setaria dielsii, *Sonchus oleraceus.

Fig. 4.21. Vegetation map of Third Sister – Wallabi Group.

42 Inventory of the Land Conservation Values of the Houtman Abrolhos Islands Figures

Fig. 4.22. Vegetation map of Traitors Island, “Traitors Islet 1”, “Traitors Islet 2”, “Traitors Islet 3”,”Traitors Islet 4”, “Traitors Islet 5”, “Traitors Islet 6” – Wallabi Group.

Fig. 4.23. Vegetation map of Wann Island – Wallabi Group.

Inventory of the Land Conservation Values of the Houtman Abrolhos Islands 43 Figures

Fig. 4.24. Vegetation map of West Wallabi Island – Wallabi Group. On West Wallabi Island: x3 denotes pavement limestone species (Beyeria viscosa, Capparis spinosa, Exocarpos aphyllus, Grevillea argyrophylla, Hibbertia racemosa, Olearia axillaris, Pimelea microcephala, Westringia dampieri).

44 Inventory of the Land Conservation Values of the Houtman Abrolhos Islands Figures

Fig. 4.25. Vegetation map of Alexander Island, “Alexander Islet 1”, “Alexander Islet 2”, Gilbert Island, “Gilbert Islet 1”, “Gilbert Islet 2”, “Gilbert Islet 3”, “Gilbert Islet 4” – Easter Group. For Alexander Island: x of xGi includes Bromus sp., *Ehrharta longiflora, Setaria dielsii.

Inventory of the Land Conservation Values of the Houtman Abrolhos Islands 45 Figures

Fig. 4.26. Vegetation map of Bynoe Island, “Bynoe Islet 1”, “Bynoe Islet 2”, “Bynoe Islet 3, “Bynoe Islet 4” – Easter Group.

46 Inventory of the Land Conservation Values of the Houtman Abrolhos Islands Figures

Fig. 4.27. Vegetation map of Campbell Island, “Campbell Islet” – Easter Group. For Campbell Island: x of xGi denotes mixed grasses (species not specified).

Inventory of the Land Conservation Values of the Houtman Abrolhos Islands 47 Figures

Fig. 4.28. Vegetation map of Crake Island, Morley Island, “Morley Islet” – Easter Group.

Fig. 4.29. Vegetation map of Disappearing Island – Easter Group.

48 Inventory of the Land Conservation Values of the Houtman Abrolhos Islands Figures

Fig. 4.30. Vegetation map of Gibson Island, Serventy Island, “Serventy Islet 1”, “Serventy Islet 2”, “Serventy Islet 3” – Easter Group. For Serventy Island: x of xFp includes Sencio lautus, *Sonchus oleraceus, *Urospermum picroides.

Inventory of the Land Conservation Values of the Houtman Abrolhos Islands 49 Figures

Fig. 4.31. Vegetation map of Helms Island, “Helms Islet 1”, “Helms Islet 2”, “Landscope Island”, “Little Stokes Island”, “Nitraria Island”, Stokes Island, Tapani Island – Easter Group. For Helms Island: x of xGFp and xGFr denotes Senecio lautus and other mixed grasses and forbs (species not specified). For “Helms Islet 1”: x of xGFr denotes mixed grasses and forbs (species not specified). For “Landscope Island”: x of xFr includes *Chenopodium murale, Lavatera plebeia, *Sonchus oleraceus. For Stokes Island: x of xFr includes Senecio lautus and other forbs (species not specified).

Fig. 4.32. Vegetation map of Joe Smith Island – Easter Group.

50 Inventory of the Land Conservation Values of the Houtman Abrolhos Islands Figures

Fig. 4.33. Vegetation map of Keru Island, Suomi Island – Easter Group. For Suomi Island: x of xFi denotes mixed forbes (species not specified).

Inventory of the Land Conservation Values of the Houtman Abrolhos Islands 51 Figures

Fig. 4.34. Vegetation map of Leo Island, “Leo Islet 1”, “Leo Islet 2 – Easter Group.

Fig. 4.35. Vegetation map of Little North Island – Easter Group.

52 Inventory of the Land Conservation Values of the Houtman Abrolhos Islands Figures

Fig. 4.36. Vegetation map of Bushby Island, Little Rat Island – Easter Group. For Bushy Island: x of xGFi denotes naïve and introduced grasses, garden plants and weeds including *Anagallis arvensis, *Avena barbata, *Conyza bonariensis, *Ehrharta longiflora, *Melilotus indicus, Setaria dielsii, *Sonchus oleraceus, *Urospermum picroides. For Little Rat Island: x of xGi, xGFi and xGFc denotes naïve and introduced grasses, garden plants and weeds including *Conyza bonariensis, *Ehrharta longiflora, *Euphorbia spp., Ipomoea cairica, Lavatera plebeia, *Melilotus indicus ,*Petroselinum crispum, *Pseudognaphalium luteoalbum, *Raphanus raphanistrum, Setaria dielsii, *Sisymbrium orientale, *Solanum nigrum.

Inventory of the Land Conservation Values of the Houtman Abrolhos Islands 53 Figures

Fig. 4.37. Vegetation map of Rat Island, “Rat Islet”, White Bank – Easter Group. For Rat Island: x of xFi, xGi, xGc and xGFr denotes naïve and introduced grasses, garden plants and weeds including *Aster subulatus, *Bryophyllum sp., *Euphorbia terracina, *Malva parviflora, *Melilotus indicus, *Pseudognaphalium luteoalbum, *Raphanus raphanistrum, Setaria dielsii, *Solanum nigrum. For Rat Island: x of xCi is mixed succulents (species not specified).

54 Inventory of the Land Conservation Values of the Houtman Abrolhos Islands Figures

Fig. 4.38. Vegetation map of Dry Island, Little Roma Island, Roma Island, “Roma Islet” – Easter Group. For Roma Island: x of xFr, xGr denotes introduced grasses, garden plants and weeds, including *Conyza bonariensis, Lavatera plebeia, *Lycopersicon esculentum, *Petroselinum crispum, *Sonchus oleraceus.

Inventory of the Land Conservation Values of the Houtman Abrolhos Islands 55 Figures

Fig. 4.39. Vegetation map of Sandy Island – Easter Group.

Fig. 4.40. Vegetation map of Shearwater Island, “Shearwater Islet” – Easter Group.

56 Inventory of the Land Conservation Values of the Houtman Abrolhos Islands Figures

Fig. 4.41. Vegetation map of White Island, “White Islet” – Easter Group. For White Island: x of xFr denotes mixed forbs (species not specified).

Fig. 4.42. Vegetation map of Wooded Island – Easter Group.

Inventory of the Land Conservation Values of the Houtman Abrolhos Islands 57 Figures

Fig. 4.43. Vegetation map of Arthur Island, Gregory Island – Pelsaert Group.

Fig. 4.44. Vegetation map of Basile Island – Pelsaert Group. For Basile Island: x of xFr and xGFr denotes native and introduced grasses, garden plants and weeds including *Avena spp., *Bromus spp., *Ehrharta spp., *Hordeum leporinum, Lavatera plebeia, *Melilotus indicus, *Phalaris minor, *Raphanus spp., *Sonchus oleraceus, *Ursinia anthemoides.

58 Inventory of the Land Conservation Values of the Houtman Abrolhos Islands Figures

Fig. 4.45. Vegetation map of Burnett Island, “Burnett Islet 1”, “Burnett Islet 2” – Pelsaert Group. For Burnett Island: x of xFr includes Parietaria debilis, *Raphanus sativus, Senecio lautus, *Sonchus oleraceus, *Urospermum picroides. For “Burnett Islet 2”: x of xFr denotes mixed forbs (species not specified).

Fig. 4.46. Vegetation map of Burton Island – Pelsaert Group. For Burton Island: x of xFr includes Lavatera plebeia, Parietaria spp., Senecio lautus, *Sonchus spp., *Urospermum picroides.

Inventory of the Land Conservation Values of the Houtman Abrolhos Islands 59 Figures

Fig. 4.47. Vegetation map of Coronation Island, “Coronation Islet” – Pelsaert Group. For Coronation Island: x of xFr includes Parietaria debilis, Senecio lautus, *Sonchus oleraceus.

60 Inventory of the Land Conservation Values of the Houtman Abrolhos Islands Figures

Fig. 4.48. Vegetation map of Davis Island, Eight Island, One Island, Seven Island, “Seven Islet”, Sid Liddon Island, Sweet Island, Three Island, Two Island – Pelsaert Group.

Fig. 4.49. Vegetation map of Diver Island – Pelsaert Group. For Diver Island: x of xFr denotes mixed forbs (species not specified).

Inventory of the Land Conservation Values of the Houtman Abrolhos Islands 61 Figures

Fig. 4.50. Vegetation map of Foale Island, Iris Refuge Island, Newbold Island, Robertson Island – Pelsaert Group. For Robertson Island: x of xCp and xFr are mixed succulents and forbs (species not specified).

62 Inventory of the Land Conservation Values of the Houtman Abrolhos Islands Figures

Fig. 4.51. Vegetation map of Gaze Island, “Gaze Islet 1”, “Gaze Islet 2”, “Gaze Islet 3”, Travia Island – Pelsaert Group.

Inventory of the Land Conservation Values of the Houtman Abrolhos Islands 63 Figures

Fig. 4.52. Vegetation map of Gun Island, “Gun Islet” – Pelsaert Group. For Gun Island: x of xGr includes Bromus sp., *Phleum pratensis, Setaria dielsii.

64 Inventory of the Land Conservation Values of the Houtman Abrolhos Islands Figures

Fig. 4.53. Vegetation map of Hummock Island – Pelsaert Group.

Fig. 4.54. Vegetation map of Jackson Island, “Jackson Islets”, “Little Jackson Island” – Pelsaert Group. For Jackson Island: x of xGFr includes *Ehrharta longiflora, Lavatera plebeia, *Lycopersicon esculentum, Parietaria debilis, Senecio lautus, *Sonchus oleraceus.

Inventory of the Land Conservation Values of the Houtman Abrolhos Islands 65 Figures

Fig. 4.55. Vegetation map of Jon Jim Island – Pelsaert Group.

Fig. 4.56. Vegetation map of Lagoon Island, Rotondella Island, “Rotondella Islet 1”, “Rotondella Islet 2” – Pelsaert Group.

66 Inventory of the Land Conservation Values of the Houtman Abrolhos Islands Figures

Fig. 4.57. Vegetation map of Middle Island – Pelsaert Group. For Middle Island: x of xGr includes Austrostipa elegantissima, *Bromus sp., Setaria dielsii, Sporobolus virginicus.

Fig. 4.58. Vegetation map of Murray Island – Pelsaert Group.

Inventory of the Land Conservation Values of the Houtman Abrolhos Islands 67 Figures

Fig. 4.59. Vegetation map of Newman Island, “Newman Islet 1”, “Newman Islet 2” – Pelsaert Group. For Newman Island: x of xFp includes Senecio lautus, *Sonchus oleraceus.

Fig. 4.60. Vegetation map of Nook Island – Pelsaert Group.

68 Inventory of the Land Conservation Values of the Houtman Abrolhos Islands Figures

Fig. 4.61a. Vegetation map of Pelsaert Island (north) – Pelsaert Group.

Inventory of the Land Conservation Values of the Houtman Abrolhos Islands 69 Figures

Fig. 4.61b. Vegetation map of Pelsaert Island (south) – Pelsaert Group.

70 Inventory of the Land Conservation Values of the Houtman Abrolhos Islands Figures

Fig. 4.62. Vegetation map of Post Office Island, “Post Office Islet” – Pelsaert Group. For Post Office Island: x of xCi is mixed succulents (species not specified). For Post Office Island: x of xFi and xGFr include Bromus arenarius, *Melilotus indicus, Parietaria debilis, *Phalaris spp., *Raphanus raphanistrum, Senecio lautus, *Sonchus oleraceus, *Urospermum picroides. For Post Office Island: x of xGFp includes mixed grasses and forbs (species not specified).

Inventory of the Land Conservation Values of the Houtman Abrolhos Islands 71 Figures

Fig. 4.63. Vegetation map of Sandy Island – Pelsaert Group.

Fig. 4.64. Vegetation map of Ship Rock – Pelsaert Group.

Fig. 4.65. Vegetation map of Square Island – Pelsaert Group.

72 Inventory of the Land Conservation Values of the Houtman Abrolhos Islands Figures

Fig. 4.66. Vegetation map of Stick Island – Pelsaert Group.

Fig. 4.67. Vegetation map of The Coral Patches – Pelsaert Group.

Inventory of the Land Conservation Values of the Houtman Abrolhos Islands 73 Figures

Fig. 4.68. Vegetation map of Uncle Margie Island, “Uncle Margie Islet” – Pelsaert Group. For Uncle Margie Island: x of xGFr includes *Avena sp., *Bromus sp., *Ehrharta longiflora, *Parapholis incurva, *Phalaris minor, *Sonchus oleraceus, *Urospermum picroides.

74 Inventory of the Land Conservation Values of the Houtman Abrolhos Islands Figures

Fig. 5a. Location of historic sites, guano mined areas and guano mining rail/tram lines of the Wallabi Group of the Abrolhos Islands (Abrolhos Island Consultative Committee/Abrolhos Islands Task Force, 1989).

Inventory of the Land Conservation Values of the Houtman Abrolhos Islands 75 Figures

Fig. 5b. Location of historic sites, guano mined areas and guano mining rail/tram lines of the Easter Group of the Abrolhos Islands (Abrolhos Island Consultative Committee/Abrolhos Islands Task Force, 1989).

76 Inventory of the Land Conservation Values of the Houtman Abrolhos Islands Figures

Fig. 5c. Location of historic sites, guano mined areas and guano mining rail/tram lines of the Pelsaert Group of the Abrolhos Islands (Abrolhos Island Consultative Committee/Abrolhos Islands Task Force, 1989).

Inventory of the Land Conservation Values of the Houtman Abrolhos Islands 77 Figures

78 Inventory of the Land Conservation Values of the Houtman Abrolhos Islands Appendix A

Appendix A

Stakeholders consulted by individual meetings were: Department of Fisheries, Perth Colin Chalmers, Randall Owens, Jo Bunting Department of Fisheries, Geraldton Kim Nardi CALM, Geraldton Mike Minema Geraldton Fishermen’s Co-operative Leith Pritchard Geraldton RFAC Laurie Robinson, Trevor Beaver, Bob Urquhart WA Tourism Commission, Geraldton Lesleigh Clarke CALM, Woodvale Andrew Burbidge, Greg Keighery, Vanda Longman & Judith Harvey Conservation Council of WA Rachel Siewert RECFISHWEST Frank Prokop WA Maritime Museum Myra Stanbury Murdoch University, Biological Sciences Chris Surman

Stakeholders contacted by phone interview were:

CALM, Como Nick Gales Friends of the Abrolhos Islands Leonie Noble MPRA Barry Wilson, Chair Department of Mineral and Petroleum Resources Bill Carr Murdoch Seabird Group Nick Dunlop, Ecologist Department of Planning and Infrastructure Wayne Winchester Marine and Coastal Community Network Edwina Davies-Ward WALIS Katherine Tobin

Inventory of the Land Conservation Values of the Houtman Abrolhos Islands 79 Appendix B et et et al., et al., et al., In prep. In Prep. Longman al., 1993 Gales 1992; R.Owens pers. comm. Longman al., Gales 1992 N.Gales pers. comm. 1994 isitors should not enter isitors should not enter isitors should avoid breeding isitors should avoid breeding V mangroves as it is a habitat which is highly prone to disturbance at all times. No restrictions apply. Stanbury, sea lions. V mangroves as it is a habitat which is highly prone to disturbance at all times. V sea lions. See code of conduct. Fuller V sea lions. isitors should follow code of Threats include direct clearing, landfill, oil spills, dumping of rubbish, sewage disposal causing nutrient enrichment. No sewage at present. Preservation. Include in interpretive material. Follow code of conduct. High risk from disturbance should avoid breeding Visitors Threats include direct clearing, landfill, oil spills, dumping of rubbish, sewage disposal causing nutrient enrichment High risk from disturbance. Develop a code of conduct for visitors to follow ensure sea- lions are not disturbed. conduct for visiting seabird breeding colonies (Burbidge and Fuller). V High risk from disturbance. Develop a code of conduct for visitors to follow ensure sea- lions are not disturbed. ells to survey guano deposits. High. Rare and special plant Highly productive, community. support food chains, provide breeding habitat. A.J. established by surveyor W High. In need of special protection. High. Rare and special plant Highly productive, community. support food chains, provide breeding habitat. High. In need of special protection. High. Northern limit of the breeding range in the Eastern Indian Ocean. Breeds October to end of February. High. In need of special protection. community & Priority 4 Flora breeding community & Priority 4 Flora Sea lion breeding breeding storm petrel Flora Mangrove Fauna Sea lion Flora Mangrove Fauna & Priority 4 Flora Fauna Sea lion Island Category Feature Conservation Significance Management ImplicationsAccess Land Source Island Island Island Island Island EG Alexander EG Dry Island Historic Cairn be assessed. Historic cairn To EG Alexander EASTER ISLAND GROUP EG Campbell EG Gilbert EG Dry Island SeabirdsEG White-faced Gibson able of Conservation Features of the Abrolhos Islands Abrolhos of the Features able of Conservation Appendix B T

80 Inventory of the Land Conservation Values of the Houtman Abrolhos Islands Appendix B et et et al., – in prep. – in prep. N.Gales pers. comm. Longman al. Fuller 1994; (Owens 1996) Owens, 1996 Longman al. (Owens, 1996) Halosarcia isitors should avoid breeding isitors should not enter isitors are requested to stick isitors should not enter void landing because of V sea lions. V mangroves as it is a habitat which is highly prone to disturbance at all times. V to the path or shingle ridges and avoid the sandy vegetated areas which contain seabird burrows. Centre of the island and vegetated sections should be avoided to prevent damage seabird burrows. V mangroves and shrubs as these are habitats which are highly prone to disturbance at all times. A access. If onshore difficult visitors should avoid vegetated and sandy areas. isitors should follow code of High risk from disturbance. Develop a code of conduct for visitors to follow ensure sea- lions are not disturbed. Threats include direct clearing, landfill, oil spills, dumping of rubbish, sewage disposal causing nutrient enrichment. V conduct for visiting seabird breeding colonies (Burbidge and Fuller). conduct for visiting seabird breeding colonies (Burbidge and Fuller). Threats include direct clearing, weed infestation, trampling by tourists, grazing by feral animals, fire, landfill, oil spills, dumping of rubbish, sewage disposal causing nutrient enrichment. conduct for visiting seabird breeding colonies (Burbidge and Fuller). Halosarcia High. In need of special protection. High. Rare and special plant Highly productive, community. support food chains, provide breeding habitat. High – important for seabird colony of conservation. Largest Caspian tern known in an Western island in offshore Australia. HighHigh. Rare and special plant Highly productive, community. support food chains, provide breeding habitat. Abrolhos. shrubs unique in should follow code of Visitors High should follow code of Visitors breeding Mangrove community shearwaters, sooty terns Mangrove community, patch of Large very old and woody Halosarcia shrubs shearwater, bridled tern, crested tern, sooty tern, Caspian tern Burrowing seabirds and sometimes sizeable breeding colonies of sooty terns Priority 4 Flora Priority 4 Flora Seabirds & Priority 4 Flora Island Category Feature Conservation Significance Management ImplicationsAccess Land Source Island EG Keru Island FaunaEG Sea lion Keru Island Flora & EG Keru Island SeabirdsEG Little Leo Island Flora & EG Leo Island Seabirds Little EG Little North

Inventory of the Land Conservation Values of the Houtman Abrolhos Islands 81 Appendix B et – in prep., N.Gales pers. comm. Longman al. R.Owens pers. comm. Stanbury, 1993, R.Owens pers. comm. isitors should not isitors should not enter V approach sea lions closely. V mangroves as it is a habitat which is highly prone to disturbance at all times Determine as part of Management Plan. Public access: restricted. Community is aware of the need to preserve camps. Develop a code of conduct for visitors to follow ensure sea- lions are not disturbed. Threats include direct clearing, landfill, oil spills, dumping of rubbish, sewage disposal causing nutrient enrichment. Adjacent to important recreational anchorage. Morley Island is needed. Need to consider all conservation features, possible reserve status, information, interpretation and signage, access. Pending valuation. Preservation. Further documentation required. Consider whether they should be set aside for preservation and restoration, as part of an assessment of sites the Abrolhos fishing industry with Threats to stone heritage value. hut are further deterioration. Threats to tin hut are demolition and/or development. haul-out beach. High. Rare and special plant Highly productive, community. support food chains, provide breeding habitat. Not yet established. Craypots probably evidence of early types of equipment used in the rock lobster industry. shed, stone hut (craypots, iron stove; tin hut). community & Priority 4 Flora General Various HighHistoric and iron Timber Specific management plan for Fauna Sea lionsFlora Medium – High. Important Mangrove Island Category Feature Conservation Significance Management ImplicationsAccess Land Source Island Island Island Island EG Morley EG Little Rat EG Morley EG Morley

82 Inventory of the Land Conservation Values of the Houtman Abrolhos Islands Appendix B et ., et al 1986; Surman, pers. comm.; Geraldton Mid-West Regional Development Committee, 1982; AICC, 1992; Storr al., Fuller 1994; Burbidge pers comm.; R.Owens pers. comm. Stanbury, 1993; R. Owens pers. comm. Burbidge, 1995 Stanbury, 1993 1993 isitors should remain on the V perimeter of the island. Lesser noddy reside on the island at all times, but the most critical time in terms of disturbance by visitors is during the breeding August – March. season from Threats to stone landing are erosion, further development of wharves and jetties. Public access: restricted (WAM). to restrict usage, Difficult significantly damaged by storms in recent years (R.Owens). Not restricted. Abbott and Threats physical disturbance. Public access: restricted. isitors should follow code of Needs a high level of protection, particularly during seabird breeding season. Adjacent to important recreational anchorage. Register on State Heritage List. Include in interpretive material, further surveys. Preservation. V conduct for visiting historic areas (Stanbury 1991). Ensure that predators such as foxes and cats are not Abrolhos introduced to the Islands, and on-going eradication of existing feral animal species should occur. On-going eradication is required. required. 1900. High – important for seabird conservation. Medium – High. Historically significant. Mouse present many years before 1987, rat present 1840 & poisoned 1991. Cat introduced circa “double gees” Prickly pear, (Owens 1996). Not yet determined. Not known. Erosion. Public use: restricted. Stanbury, ; black Mus ); cats. Rattus bridled and sooty terns, little shearwaters, white-faced storm petrels colony (largest in Abrolhos). colony of Large fairy terns was mixed with a colony of large roseate terns in 1996. stone landing rat ( rattus species stone jetty, bollard musculus Seabirds Lesser noddy, Island Category Feature Conservation Significance Management ImplicationsAccess Land Source Island EG Morley EG Rat Island Historic GravesEG Rat Island Historic Not yet established. Guano mining – Further documentation EG Rat Island Fauna Mouse ( EG Rat Island FloraEG Rat Island Introduced Historic Guano mining –

Inventory of the Land Conservation Values of the Houtman Abrolhos Islands 83 Appendix B ., et et al . – in prep. Stanbury, 1993 Gales 1992 Stanbury, 1993 Stanbury, 1993 Stanbury, 1993 1993 Longman al isitors should avoid breeding isitors should not enter Threats corrosion and deterioration. Public access: restricted. V sea lions Threats digging and/or development. Public access: restricted. Threats are digging or other physical interference. Public access: restricted. Public access: restricted. Threats to cairn are physical disturbance Public access: unrestricted. Stanbury, V mangroves as it is a habitat which is highly prone to disturbance at all times isitors should not closely Archaeology Department for assessment. V approach sea lions. Develop a code of conduct for visitors to follow to ensure sea-lions are not disturbed. Include as part of Rat Island Historic Precinct. Include in interpretive material. Further surveys. Preservation. Register stone foundations on State Heritage List and/or include as part of Rat Island Historic Precinct. Stone walls and stone hut pending significance evaluation. Include in interpretive material, further surveys. Preservation. Include well as part of Rat Island Historic Precinct. Register cairn on State Heritage List. Include in interpretive material. Preservation. Include as part of Rat Island Historic Precinct. Include in interpretive material. Preservation. Threats include direct clearing, landfill, oil spills, dumping of rubbish, sewage disposal causing nutrient enrichment MediumHigh. In need of special Maritime WAM Referred to Whelping sea lions protection. may be encountered in mangroves. Medium. Occupied more or less continuously 1883 to 1904. Medium – High. Historically significant. Medium – High. Well Medium – High. historically significant – demonstrates constraints imposed on communities. Medium – High. Historically significant, demonstrates part of the infrastructure guano extraction industry. High. Rare and special plant Highly productive, community. support food chains, provide breeding habitat. ell (northeast W point), deep rock hole, Wells’ cairn (a 19th Century surveyor) breeding beach) tramway embankments, tramline, bale straps community settlement Area (northeast) foundations, stone walls Fauna Sea lion Flora Mangrove Island Category Feature Conservation Significance Management ImplicationsAccess Land Source Island (Travia) Island EG Rat Island Historic (north Wreck EG Serventy EG Rat Island Historic Guano mining – EG Rat Island Historic EG Roma EG Rat Island HistoricEG Historic Rat Island Historic Stone

84 Inventory of the Land Conservation Values of the Houtman Abrolhos Islands Appendix B et et et et al., et al., – in prep. – in prep. – in prep. Gales 1992 Owens, 1996 Owens, 1996 Owens, 1996 Longman al. Longman al. Longman al. Fuller 1994; Owens, 1996 isitors should avoid breeding isitors should avoid landing isitors should avoid vegetated isitors should avoid vegetated isitors should not enter isitors should not enter isitors should not enter isitors should avoid vegetated V sea lions. V in on this due to difficulties access and seabird burrows. V and sandy areas. V and sandy areas. Determine as part of Management Plan. V mangroves as it is a habitat which is highly prone to disturbance at all times. V mangroves as it is a habitat which is highly prone to disturbance at all times. V mangroves as it is a habitat which is highly prone to disturbance at all times V and sandy areas. ooded Island is needed. Needs High risk from disturbance. Develop a code of conduct for visitors to follow ensure sea- lions are not disturbed. conduct for visiting seabird breeding colonies (Burbidge and Fuller). conduct for visiting seabird breeding colonies (Burbidge and Fuller). Specific Management Plan for W to consider all conservation features, possible reserve status, information, interpretation and signage, and access. Threats include direct clearing, landfill, oil spills, dumping of rubbish, sewage disposal causing nutrient enrichment. Threats include direct clearing, landfill, oil spills, dumping of rubbish, sewage disposal causing nutrient enrichment. Threats include direct clearing, landfill, oil spills, dumping of rubbish, sewage disposal causing nutrient enrichment conduct for visiting seabird breeding colonies (Burbidge and Fuller). High. In need of special protection. Medium should follow code of Visitors High should follow code of Visitors High. Rare and special plant Highly productive, community. support food chains, provide breeding habitat. High. Rare and special plant Highly productive, community. support food chains, provide breeding habitat. High. Rare and special plant Highly productive, community. support food chains, provide breeding habitat. High should follow code of Visitors community Mangrove community community breeding sooty tern Bridled tern Sooty tern and burrowing seabirds. Flora & Priority 4 Flora Flora Mangrove General Various High Seabirds Sooty tern, Priority 4 Flora Island Category Feature Conservation Significance Management ImplicationsAccess Land Source Island Island Island Island EG Suomi Island Flora Mangrove EG Serventy EG Stokes EG Suomi Island Fauna Sea lion EG Suomi Island Seabirds Bridled tern, EG Wooded EG Stokes EG White Island Seabirds &

Inventory of the Land Conservation Values of the Houtman Abrolhos Islands 85 Appendix B et et et al., 1986; – in prep., N.Gales pers. comm. Longman al. R.Owens pers. comm. Surman, pers. comm; Geraldton Mid-West Regional Development Committee, 1982; AICC, 1992; Storr al., Fuller 1994; AICC, 1995; R.Owens pers. comm. isitors should not closely isitors should not enter V approach sea lions. V mangroves as it is a habitat which is highly prone to disturbance at all times. Generally recommended that visitors only walk around Lesser noddy reside perimeter. on the island at all times but the most critical time in terms of disturbance by visitors is during the breeding season Pied August – November. from comorant colony located near the lagoon should not be approached within 200 metres. Develop a code of conduct for visitors to follow ensure sea- lions are not disturbed. Threats include direct clearing, landfill, oil spills, dumping of rubbish, sewage disposal causing nutrient enrichment. Adjacent to important recreational anchorage. Needs a high level of protection, particularly during the breeding season. Pied Cormorant very sensitive to disturbance. Adjacent to important recreational anchorage. haul-out beach. High. Rare and special plant Highly productive, community. support food chains, provide breeding habitat. Grow along a lagoon. Mangroves also large provide habitat for the pied cormorant. High – important for seabird conservation. community. bridled and sooty terns, little shearwaters, little pied cormorant (mangroves in lagoon only breeding site in Abrolhos); pied cormorant colony (largest in Abrolhos) Fauna Sea lionsFlora Medium – High. Important Mangrove Seabirds Lesser noddy, Island Category Feature Conservation Significance Management ImplicationsAccess Land Source Island Island Island EG Wooded EG Wooded EG Wooded

86 Inventory of the Land Conservation Values of the Houtman Abrolhos Islands Appendix B et et et al. in prep.; – in prep. Chris Surman pers. comm. Harvey – in prep., Chris Surman, Randall Owens pers. comm. Owens, 1996 Longman al. Chris Surman pers. comm. al., R.Owens pers. comm. isitors should avoid areas isitors should not enter isitors should not enter isitors should not closely V with nests. See code of conduct. Surman, 1998 V mangroves as it is a habitat which is highly prone to disturbance at all times. Currently accessed by fishing industry. V mangroves as it is a habitat which is highly prone to disturbance at all times. V approach sea lions. Not usually visited. Longman isitors should follow code of isitors should follow code of conduct for visiting seabird breeding colonies (Burbidge and Fuller). V conduct for visiting seabird breeding colonies (Burbidge and Fuller). V communities. Consider whether camps and church should be set aside for preservation and restoration, as part of an assessment sites Abrolhos fishing industry the with heritage value. Threats include direct clearing, landfill, oil spills, dumping of rubbish, sewage disposal (causing nutrient enrichment). visitors to follow ensure sea- lions are not disturbed. General threats to mangrove communities apply. be assessed. Whole island be assessed.

High. Roseate terns regularly use one of the islets as a nesting site. substantial constructions made from seaweed and grasses. Chicks threatened by trampling during October. Low. Only minimal mangroves.Low. General threats to mangrove has fishing heritage value as it is representative of decades migrant fishing traditions. To High. Rare and special plant Highly productive, community. support food chains, provide breeding habitat. Low. Minimal mangrove Low. community. church community Pacific gulls, Osprey community community Flora Mangrove Fauna Sea-lionsSeabirds Roseate terns, Medium. Haul-out area. Develop a code of conduct for Flora Mangrove Island Category Feature Conservation Significance Management ImplicationsAccess Land Source Island Patches Patches Island PELSAERT GROUP PG Basile Island Historic Fishing camps, PG Basile Island Seabirds Pacific gullsPG High. Nest on ground, Burton PG Coral PG Coral PG Basile Island Flora Mangrove PG Coronation

Inventory of the Land Conservation Values of the Houtman Abrolhos Islands 87 Appendix B et et et al., – in prep. – in prep. Longman al. Storr 1986; Surman 1998 Green and Stanbury, 1988 Stanbury, 1991; Green and Stanbury, 1988 Chris Surman pers. comm., Longman al. isitors should not enter isitors should avoid areas isitors should not enter V mangroves as it is a habitat which is highly prone to disturbance at all times. V with nests. Permit access, include information with notices relating to historic sites associated with the shipwreck. Access to the site should be permitted, but suitable markers and notices should be erected in order to make known the public the management recommendations. V mangroves as it is a habitat which is highly prone to disturbance at all times. on this Maritime 1973. The 1973. Zeewijk Maritime isitors should follow code of Threats include direct clearing, landfill, oil spills, dumping of rubbish, sewage disposal causing nutrient enrichment. The island should be declared a protected zone under section 9. (1) of the (State) Act Archaeology whole of the island should be protected as maritime archaeological sites under section 4. (1) (b) and of the (State) Act Archaeology V conduct for visiting seabird breeding colonies (Burbidge and Fuller). Nest on ground, substantial constructions made from seaweed and grasses. island). Visitors should follow Visitors island). code of conduct for visiting historic areas (Stanbury 1991). The guano mining areas should be included in the overall protection of the island (see recommendations for sites associated with Removal of rubbish is required. Threats include direct clearing, landfill, oil spills, dumping of rubbish, sewage disposal causing nutrient enrichment. A. Only one or two chicks on High. Rare and special plant Highly productive, community. support food chains, provide breeding habitat. High. Historically significant at a national and international level. It is the site where first ocean-going vessel in Australia was built. High. Pacific gulls at the Abrolhos are the largest successful breeding colony in W each island, threatened by trampling during October. Medium – High. Major guano The settlement in late 1800s. site is significant in terms of the historical pattern of landuse and economic development in Abrolhos. the Houtman High. Important potential breeding sites for the Lesser noddy if mangroves on Pelsaert Islands were Wooded Group, lost. (1727) community Zeewijk survivors’ camps (artefacts, camp sites, burial site or graveyard, rock-holes or ‘wells’) community small colonies of fairy terns, bridled tern, Pacific gull. roseate terns nest from November to January occupation site, quarry, causeway and tramline jetty, foundations, rock piles Flora Mangrove Seabirds Occasionally Island Category Feature Conservation Significance Management ImplicationsAccess Land Source Island (Fin) Island (Fin) PG Gaze Island Flora Mangrove PG Gun Island Historic PG Burnette PG Burnette PG Gun Island Historic Guano mining –

88 Inventory of the Land Conservation Values of the Houtman Abrolhos Islands Appendix B et et et et al., et al., et al., 1994 – in prep. – in prep. Storr 1986; Surmank, 1998, Fuller al., pers. comm. Owens, 1996 Longman al. 1993 Gray, 1994; Surman, 1998 Longman al. 1986; Surman pers. comm. isitors should keep to the isitors should not enter isitors should not enter No restrictions. M.Stanbury V avoid sandy areas perimeter, if terns are flushed and back off from their nests. Landing on the island is dangerous and should not be attempted. V mangroves as it is a habitat which is highly prone to disturbance at all times. See code of conduct. Fuller V mangroves as it is a habitat which is highly prone to disturbance at all times. See code of conduct. Storr arrants assessment and isitors should follow code of isitors should follow code of isitors should follow code of isitors should follow code of void walking on sand and conduct for visiting historic areas (Stanbury 1991). Include in any interpretive material. V W appropriate conservation and should management. Visitors follow code of conduct for visiting historic areas 1991). (Stanbury, V conduct for visiting seabird breeding colonies (Burbidge and Fuller). A sandier vegetated areas. Threats include direct clearing, landfill, oil spills, dumping of rubbish, sewage disposal (causing nutrient enrichment). V conduct for visiting seabird breeding colonies (Burbidge and Fuller). Threats include direct clearing, landfill, oil spills, dumping of rubbish, sewage disposal (causing nutrient enrichment). V conduct for visiting seabird breeding colonies (Burbidge and Fuller). be assessed. Possibly where be assessed. Unknown

two survivors were put ashore as punishment (possibly happened at Mangrove Island). origin, at least there since 1930s and probably much longer. High – important for seabird conservation. Nest October – March. To areas. High. Rare and special plant Highly productive, community. support food chains, provide breeding habitat. High – important for seabird conservation. threatened species. To High. Rare and special plant Highly productive, community. support food chains, provide breeding habitat. High – important for seabird conservation. (1727). of roseate terns irregularly nest. bridled terns and wedge- tailed shearwaters. association with wreck of the Zeewijk crested terns community Coral shingle hut community Seabirds numbers Large Historic Possible Seabirds ShearwatersSeabirds Medium. Burrows in sandy Roseate terns, Flora Mangrove Cultural Heritage Flora Mangrove Island Category Feature Conservation Significance Management ImplicationsAccess Land Source Island Island Island Rotendella Island Island (Uncle Margie) Island (islet adjacent) PG Jon-Jim PG Gun Island Seabirds colony of Large PG Hummock PG Hummock PG Islet west of PG Jackson PG Mangrove PG Jackson

Inventory of the Land Conservation Values of the Houtman Abrolhos Islands 89 Appendix B et et – in prep., – in prep. Longman al. Surman, pers. comm. Chris Surman pers. comm.; Longman al. Chris Surman pers. comm. isitors should not enter isitors should avoid areas Access to pavement limestone communities should be restricted. Consider use of designated tracks (day use only) where appropriate, and provide information/ is not Tourism interpretation. appropriate as the island is undisturbed (C.Surman). V mangroves as it is a habitat which is highly prone to disturbance at all times. V with nests. Threats include weed infestation, clearing, landfill, fire, trampling by tourists, grazing by feral animals, dumping of rubbish. Removal of rubbish is required. Threats include direct clearing, landfill, oil spills, dumping of rubbish, sewage disposal causing nutrient enrichment. conduct for visiting seabird breeding colonies (Burbidge and Fuller). Substantial constructions made from seaweed and grasses. Chicks threatened by trampling during October. High. Highly sensitive to disturbance, slow rates of regeneration. Medium – High. Important potential breeding sites for the lesser noddy if mangroves on Islands were Wooded Pelsaert, lost. Island has a land-locked lagoon with mangroves, would become an important refuge in the event of an oil spill. limestone community in (largest Pelsaert Group. 29 native species) community Flora Pavement Flora Mangrove Seabirds Pacific gulls High. should follow code of Visitors Island Category Feature Conservation Significance Management ImplicationsAccess Land Source Island (Uncle Margie) Island (Uncle Margie) PG Middle PG Mangrove Is PG Mangrove

90 Inventory of the Land Conservation Values of the Houtman Abrolhos Islands Appendix B Stanbury, 1991, Green and Stanbury, 1988. Access to the site should be permitted, but suitable markers and notices should be erected in order to make known the public the management recommendations. 1973 and the Maritime Maritime Archaeology 1973, with particular The whole of the island should be protected as a maritime archaeological site under section 4. (1) (b) and of the (State) Act Archaeology two stone structures be specifically protected within a protected zone of 100 metres radius under section 9.(1) of the (State) Act reference to the restriction of digging and/or any major earthworks without Museum The island should be approval. declared a protected zone under section 9. (1) of the (State) Act Maritime Archaeology 1973. No digging and/or major earthworks be undertaken on the island without approval from the Executive Director, (WA Museum). No metal detecting devices be used for the purpose of locating archaeological material with approval from the Executive Visitors Director (WAM). should follow code of conduct for visiting historic areas 1991). (Stanbury, . enus V Medium – High. Historically and culturally significant in terms of its use as a refuge and burial place by shipwrecked mariners of the Significant in terms of Abrolhos, maritime history of and to the broader colonial WA. history of (1851). enus structures, artefacts, non- European burial, Shipwreck survivors refuge and burial site – V Exact origin of the remains of a limestone structure and a stone “tower” is uncertain. Historic Stone Island Category Feature Conservation Significance Management ImplicationsAccess Land Source Island PG Middle

Inventory of the Land Conservation Values of the Houtman Abrolhos Islands 91 Appendix B et al., Stanbury, 1991, Green and Stanbury, 1988 Storr 1986; Surman, pers. comm. isitors should avoid sandy Access to the site should be permitted, but suitable markers and notices should be erected in order to make known the public the management recommendations. V areas. Maritime 1973. No Maritime Archaeology 1973. The whole of the 1973. isitors should follow code of The well be specifically protected within a zone of 100 metres radius under section 9. (1) of the (State) Act island should be protected as a maritime archaeological site under section 4. (1) (b) and (1) of the (State) Act Archaeology digging and/or major earthworks be undertaken on the island without approval from the Executive Director, No metal detecting (WAM). devices be used for the purpose of locating archaeological material without approval from the Executive Director (WAM). It is one of the few islands the Pelsaert Group that doesn’t appear to have been mined for guano. V conduct for visiting seabird breeding colonies (Burbidge and Fuller). High. Historically significant at a national and international level. High – important for seabird conservation. (1727) eastern end of island) used by Zeewijk survivors, sailmaker’s scissors reported to be found by Zeewijk survivors. Shearwaters Historic (south Well Seabirds Wedge-tailed Island Category Feature Conservation Significance Management ImplicationsAccess Land Source Island Island PG Middle PG Middle

92 Inventory of the Land Conservation Values of the Houtman Abrolhos Islands Appendix B et et al., – in prep., Fuller 1994. Surman, pers. comm. Longman al. Chris Surman pers. comm. Stanbury, 1991, Green and Stanbury, 1988 isitors should not enter ourism is not appropriate as T the island is undisturbed (Surman pers. comm.). See code of conduct. Surman, 1998 See code of conduct. Surman, 1998 V mangroves as it is a habitat which is highly prone to disturbance at all times. Access to the site should be permitted, but suitable markers and notices should be erected in order to make known the public the management recommendations. isitors should follow code of isitors should follow code of isitors should follow code of isitors should follow code of V conduct for visiting seabird breeding colonies (Burbidge and Fuller). V conduct for visiting seabird breeding colonies (Burbidge and Fuller). V conduct for visiting seabird breeding colonies (Burbidge and Fuller). Removal of rubbish is required. Threats include direct clearing, landfill, oil spills, dumping of rubbish, sewage disposal causing nutrient enrichment The well be recognised as an area of historic interest. No digging and/or major earthworks be undertaken on the island without approval from the Executive Director, No metal detecting (WAM). devices be used for the purpose of locating archaeological material with approval from the (WAM). Executive Director, V conduct for visiting historic areas (Stanbury 1991). High – important for seabird conservation. conservation. High – important for seabird conservation. Only known autumn/winter breeding of bridled terns. Medium. Important potential breeding sites for the lesser noddy. High. Historically significant at a national and international level. (1727) community Zeewijk survivors shearwaters breeding colonies of roseate terns, mid April to end of June. Also autumn nesting bridled terns. Flora Mangrove Historic used by Well Seabirds Wedge-tailed Seabirds Roseate terns High – important for seabird Seabirds Autumn Island Category Feature Conservation Significance Management ImplicationsAccess Land Source Island Island Island Island Island PG Newman PG Murray PG Murray PG Newbold PG Newman

Inventory of the Land Conservation Values of the Houtman Abrolhos Islands 93 Appendix B et – in prep. Longman al. R.Owens pers. comm. Green and Stanbury, 1988, R. Owens pers. comm. communities isitors should not enter isitors should not enter V mangroves as it is a habitat which is highly prone to disturbance at all times. V Atriplex Cinerea due to the unstable nature of the soil and possible damage to seabird burrows. Determine as part of Management Plan. The numbered islands are and dangerous to difficult approach and support no landing. Heritage if appropriate. The small islands in the Pelsaert Group lagoon should be recognised as places of historic interest and considered for protection under Act Threats include direct clearing, landfill, oil spills, dumping of rubbish, sewage disposal (causing nutrient enrichment), weed infestation, fire, trampling by tourists. Pelsaert Island is an important anchorage so people will visit. Pelsaert Island is needed to consider all conservation features, possible reserve status, information, interpretation and signage, access. Pelsaert Island is an important anchorage so will always attract visitors for this reason, together with its natural and historic features. Need to provide a mooring stake or system for the north end lagoon to avoid anchors being walked up on beach causing nesting disturbance. A.cinerea The islands are historically and culturally significant in as much as they demonstrate the historical pattern of land use and economic development in Abrolhos. the Houtman High. Rare and special plant Highly productive, community. support food chains, provide breeding habitat. provides breeding habitat for burrowing seabirds. – artefacts, railway lines community, Atriplex cinerea dwarf shrubland General Various High. Very Specific management plan for Historic Guano Mining Flora Mangrove Island Category Feature Conservation Significance Management ImplicationsAccess Land Source Island One, Number Three, Number Eight, Sweet and Davis Island Island PG Pelsaert PG Number PG Pelsaert

94 Inventory of the Land Conservation Values of the Houtman Abrolhos Islands Appendix B Stanbury, 1991, Green and Stanbury, 1988 Stanbury, 1991, Green and Stanbury, 1988, Surman, pers. comm. Stanbury, 1991, Green and Stanbury, 1988 Access to the site should be permitted, but suitable markers and notices should be erected in order to make known the public the management recommendations. Access to the site should be permitted, but suitable markers and notices should be erected in order to make known the public the management recommendations. Access to the site should be permitted, but suitable markers and notices should be erected in order to make known the public the management recommendations. Heritage survivors Maritime Archaeology Ben Ledi 1973 within a protected 1991. The southern end of Pelsaert Island be recognised as an area of historic interest. The area of Pelsaert island including and southward of the 20th century phosphate loading jetty be considered for protection under the Northern end of Pelsaert Island. The encampment be protected as a maritime archaeological site under section 4. (1) (b) of the (State) Act zone of 100 metres radius Act under section 9.(1) of the with the restriction that no digging be undertaken without Museum approval. Act Interpretation required. Needs sign stating rubbish disposal, lighting of fires and camping is not permitted. Island is an important anchorage so people will visit. Medium. Significant in terms of maritime history Abrolhos, and to the broader WA. colonial history of Medium. Guano mining – occupation site. Pattern of land use and economic development in 19th and 20th Century (WWII). Historically significant in terms of maritime history Abrolhos, and to the broader WA. colonial history of (1878) (1842). Ben Ledi Ocean guano fields, guano loading bay and chute, phosphate loading wharf, jetties, limestone causeway, wooden quarry, punt. survivors encampment: Marten and (1879). encampment site of shipwreck survivors from the Queen Historic Settlement site, Historic Shipwreck Historic Temporary Island Category Feature Conservation Significance Management ImplicationsAccess Land Source Island Island Island PG Pelsaert PG Pelsaert PG Pelsaert

Inventory of the Land Conservation Values of the Houtman Abrolhos Islands 95 Appendix B Stanbury, 1991, Green and Stanbury, 1988 See code of conduct. Surman, 1998 Access to the site should be permitted, but suitable markers and notices should be erected in order to make known the public the management recommendations. bench mark be Moresby isitors should follow code of isitors should follow code of V conduct for visiting seabird breeding colonies (Burbidge and Fuller). The southern end of Pelsaert Island, the mangrove area on the west side of Pelsaert Island and an area of shoreline on the west side of the island, 10 metres wide and extending 100 metres to the north of HMAS protected as a maritime archaeological site under section 4. (1) (b) of the (State) Act Maritime Archaeology The island should be 1973 declared a protected zone under section 9. (1) of the (State) Act Maritime Archaeology 1973. No digging and/or major earthworks be undertaken on the island without approval from the Executive Director, No metal detecting (WAM). devices be used for the purpose of locating archaeological material without approval from the Executive Director (WAM). V conduct for visiting historic 1991). areas – (Stanbury, ery High – important for V seabird conservation. Supports the most diverse number of breeding seabirds in the Abrolhos. High. Historically significant at a national and international level. (1727). survivors of Zeewijk Sawn-off mangrove tree stumps, artefact deposit, wreckage deposit. of seabird breed regularly on Pelsaert Group Island. Historic Used by Seabirds Thirteen species Island Category Feature Conservation Significance Management ImplicationsAccess Land Source Island Island PG Pelsaert PG Pelsaert

96 Inventory of the Land Conservation Values of the Houtman Abrolhos Islands Appendix B et al., ., 1994 Surman, pers. comm. Surman, 1998; Storr 1986; Burbidge & 1996; Fuller, Surman pers. comm; Fuller et al Surman, pers. comm. isitors should be prohibited Approach to beaches needs be made slowly and quietly by power boats to avoid disturbance. V from mid-August to late when the majority of January, seabirds are with eggs and nest- should Visitors bound young. not enter mangroves as it is a habitat which is highly prone to Visitors disturbance at all times. should avoid vegetated and sandy areas. No-fly zone August between the middle of April. Most of and the end of the problems are with fixed When disturbed wing aircraft. by a plane, all of the birds (including nesting birds) fly off and leave the nests, leaving eggs and chicks vulnerable. their food Also birds regurgitate Areas that are off when scared. limits to aircraft are enforced by Authority the or Civil Aviation could be enforced by the Department of Fisheries. Float plane landing at Pelsaert Island should land further out from the island and motor in slowly (float plane currently lands directly in their flight path). Restrict access when ospreys are breeding, incubating and raising young (late July to mid October). isitors should follow code of Suggested as a conservation reserve. conduct for visiting seabird breeding colonies (Burbidge and Fuller). V conduct for visiting seabird breeding colonies (Burbidge and Fuller). ) ery High. Australasian ery High. Anous tenuirostris melanops Anous tenuirostris V subspecies of the lesser noddy ( Abrolhos. breeds only at the High – important for seabird conservation. edge-tailed seabird breeding. colony Largest of Lesser Sooty noddy, terns and Brown noddies Abrolhos. at the Second largest colony of W shearwaters in the Abrolhos. Colony of Caspian terns nest at Big Lagoon. and sooty terns Seabirds Always used for Seabirds Osprey nest Medium. should follow code of Visitors Seabirds Brown noddies Island Category Feature Conservation Significance Management ImplicationsAccess Land Source Island (south of lesser noddy lakes) Island, small rocky beach, Island, Gaze’s Camp PG Pelsaert PG Pelsaert PG Pelsaert

Inventory of the Land Conservation Values of the Houtman Abrolhos Islands 97 Appendix B et al., et al., Owens, 1996 1986; Surman, 1998 Fuller 1994; Fuller and Burbidge, 1981; Surman, 1998 Surman pers. comm. isitors should not enter Currently accessed by fishing industry. See code of conduct. Storr V mangroves as it is a habitat which is highly prone to disturbance at all times. Consider whether camps and church should be set aside for preservation and restoration, as part of an assessment sites Abrolhos fishing industry the with heritage value. Chicks threatened by trampling during October. The most important areas of the island for seabird breeding are the mangroves and sandy southern four kilometres or so. No area of the island could be said to be not used for seabirds for breeding because many species do not have fixed breeding sites and may move their breeding place each year. Threats include direct clearing, landfill, oil spills, dumping of rubbish, sewage disposal causing nutrient enrichment. 1 and 2 are very old, material came from guano industry and tourist camps on Pelsaert Group Island. Fishing camp on west side and jetty on SW islet – possible fishing heritage value. High – important for seabird conservation. High. Largest colony of roseate High. Largest Wreck terns nests regularly at Point in the southern end of island, other colonies in locations each year, different any part of the island is suitable for breeding. High. Important potential breeding sites for the lesser noddy. tropic-bird. Breeding was regular during 1940s and 1950s but irregular since then. The last recorded attempts were in 1988 and 1996. Roseate tern (a globally threatened species) breeds around the perimeter. community breeding colonies of roseate terns recorded nesting from 1995 – 1999, mid April to end of June, Pacific gull. Seabirds Red-tailed Flora Mangrove Historic Fishing camps be assessed. Parts of camps To Seabirds Autumn Island Category Feature Conservation Significance Management ImplicationsAccess Land Source Island, southern end Island Island Island PG Pelsaert PG Post Office PG Post Office PG Post Office

98 Inventory of the Land Conservation Values of the Houtman Abrolhos Islands Appendix B et al., C.Surman, pers. comm. Fuller 1994; Surman, 1998); R.Owens pers. comm. C. Surman, pers. comm. Surman, 1998 (Abbott and Burbidge, 1995) isitors should avoid breeding isitors should avoid breeding V sea lions. Main activity early November Visitors to end of January. should avoid sandy areas and avoid interior of the island. Restrict access in breeding season as point of entry to Island may be highly disruptive to roseate tern colony. Human visitation needs to be managed, through the development of guidelines included in interpretive material. V sea lions isitors should not closely isitors should follow code of isitors should follow code of approach sea lions. Develop a code of conduct for visitors to follow to ensure sea-lions are not disturbed. conduct for visiting seabird breeding colonies (Burbidge and Fuller). V V Ensure the habitat of reptiles is protected from threats, such as fire and clearing. Ensure that predators, such as foxes and cats, are not Abrolhos introduced to the Islands, and ongoing eradication of existing feral animal species should occur. V conduct for visiting seabird breeding colonies (Burbidge and Fuller). High risk from disturbance. Develop a code of conduct for visitors to follow ensure sea- lions are not disturbed. High. In need of special protection. High – important for seabird conservation. High. Spiny-tailed skink gazetted “rare or otherwise in need of special protection”. Pair observed by Chris Surman in 1997. High – important for seabird conservation. High. In need of special protection. (not every year) breeding breeding (observed by C. Surman since 1993). terns (recorded since 1993; pair of Osprey, shearwaters and some Bridled terns. skink Seabirds Roseate terns Fauna Sea lion Fauna Sea lion Seabirds Nesting roseate Reptiles Spiny-tailed Island Category Feature Conservation Significance Management ImplicationsAccess Land Source Island (Jubilee) Island Island Island (Jubilee) Island PG Rotendella PG Stick PG Square PG Square PG Stick

Inventory of the Land Conservation Values of the Houtman Abrolhos Islands 99 Appendix B Surman, 1998; C. Surman, pers. comm. Stanbury, 1988) void sandy areas, keep to the A perimeter of the island. See code of conduct. Green and if appropriate. isitors should follow code of isitors should follow code of conduct for visiting seabird breeding colonies (Burbidge and Fuller). V Island should be recognised as a place of historic interest and considered for protection under Heritage Act V conduct for visiting historic 1991). areas (Stanbury, High. Autumn nesting crested High. terns occasionally breed on this island. Significant colony of white faced storm petrels. Medium. Particularly good example of the alteration landscape features resulting from historic patterns of landuse and economic development. encampment site, transportation facilities, causeway and manmade jetty, rock walls white-faced storm petrel, little osprey, shearwaters Seabirds Crested tern, Island Category Feature Conservation Significance Management ImplicationsAccess Land Source (Jubilee) Island PG Sweet Island Historic Guano mining – PG Stick

100 Inventory of the Land Conservation Values of the Houtman Abrolhos Islands Appendix B et ., In prep.); al R.Owens pers. comm. Green and Stanbury, 1988; Stanbury, 1991 Determine as part of management plan. Museum. Not normally visited Longman No further occupation or dwellings should be permitted on the island. In longer term (10-20 years), the existing camps should be removed. Access to the site should be permitted, but suitable markers and notices should be erected in order to make known the public the management recommendations. Camp alterations which require excavation need approval from WA Maritime 1973. The 1973. No Maritime Threats include direct clearing, landfill, oil spills, dumping of rubbish, sewage disposal (unlikely causing nutrient enrichment). The island should be declared a protected zone under section 9. (1) of the (State) Act Archaeology whole of the island should be protected as maritime archaeological site under section 4. (1) (b) and of the (State) Act Archaeology digging and/or major earthworks be undertaken on the island without approval from the Executive Director (WA Museum). No metal detecting devices be used for the purpose of locating archaeological material with approval from the Executive Visitors Director (WAM). should follow code of conduct for visiting historic areas 1991). (Stanbury, Beacon Island is needed. Needs to consider all conservation features, possible reserve status, information, interpretation and signage, access. incident. Also the shipwreck. Batavia ery High. Historically High. Rare and special plant Highly productive, community. support food chains, provide breeding habitat. V significant at a national and international level in terms of the Hadda (1629) (1877) community Batavia shipwreck survivors’ encampments, burial or ‘graveyard’ site, cannon, artefacts. Also Hadda survivors. Flora Mangrove General Various HighHistoric Specific management plan for Island Category Feature Conservation Significance Management ImplicationsAccess Land Source Island Island Island ALLABI – NORTH ISLAND GROUP ALLABI – NORTH W WG Akerstrom WG Beacon WG Beacon

Inventory of the Land Conservation Values of the Houtman Abrolhos Islands 101 Appendix B et in prep.; Longman al., AICC 1992 Green and Stanbury, 1988 Determine as part of Management Plan. 1965; Storr, 1998; FWA, R.Owens pers. comm. Access to pavement limestone communities and dunes consolidated dunes should be restricted. Consider use of designated tracks (day use only) where appropriate, and provide information/ interpretation. Access to the site should be permitted, but suitable markers and notices should be erected in order to make known the public the management recommendations. Human visitation needs to be managed, though the development of guidelines included in interpretive material. isitors should follow code of Threats include weed infestation, clearing, landfill, fire, trampling by tourists, grazing by feral animals, dumping of rubbish. V conduct for visiting historic areas (Stanbury 1991). Has been subject to interference since 1963. Island is needed. Wallabi East Needs to consider all conservation features, possible reserve status, information, interpretation and signage, access. Ensure the habitat of mammals and reptiles is protected from threats such as fire and clearing. Ensure that predators such as foxes and cats are not Abrolhos introduced to the Islands, and on-going eradication of existing feral animal species should occur. Monitor population status of the tammar wallaby and southern bush rat. ildlife density is low by High. No eucalypts occur on islands between other offshore Albany. Barrow Island and Pavement community highly sensitive to disturbance, slow rates of regeneration. High. Historically significant at a national and international level. carpet wallaby, Tammar High. python and spiny-tailed skink gazetted “rare or otherwise in need of special protection”. The subspecies of spiny-tailed skink and bearded dragon are Abrolhos endemic to the Islands. W Wallabi. comparison with West (1629) , promontory. Batavia Cornelisz’ prison – coral/limestone structure bush wallaby, rat, spiny-tailed skink, carpet python, bearded dragon Eucalyptus oraria pavement limestone community, dunes and consolidated dunes Historic Southeast General Various HighFauna Tammar Specific Management Plan for Flora & Priority 3 Flora Island Category Feature Conservation Significance Management ImplicationsAccess Land Source Island Island Island Island WG Beacon WG East Wallabi WG East Wallabi WG East Wallabi

102 Inventory of the Land Conservation Values of the Houtman Abrolhos Islands Appendix B et al., Storr, 1960; Storr, Storr 1986. Green and Stanbury, 1988; Stanbury, 1991; Green and Stanbury, 1988 Black and Johnson, 1997 Fisheries WA, 1998 isitors should avoid walking V in vegetated areas. Access to the site should be permitted, but suitable markers and notices should be erected in order to make known the public the management recommendations. Walkways from the landings could be considered. Determine after further research. Need to determine appropriate land uses and whether access should be restricted. Maritime Archaeology 1973 within a protected Consider in management plan. Ensure habitat is protected, and feral animals are not introduced. The wells should be protected as maritime archaeology sites under section 4 (1) of the (State) Act zone of 100m radius each The island should be well. declared a protected zone under section 9. (1) of the (State) Act Maritime Archaeology should follow Visitors 1973. code of conduct for visiting historic areas – (Stanbury, 1991). tidal ponds: determine their location, assess their conservation significance and develop appropriate protection strategies. identify appropriate management recommendations. WANeed to contact Museum. High. Painted button-quail sub- species is endemic to the Abrolhos Islands, mainland populations of brush bronzewing are decreasing. High. Historically significant at a national and international level. High Need further research to (1629) idal ponds Not yet assessed. Undertake further research on Batavia wells, slaughter site T small but conspicuous headland of coralline limestone is a fossil site of international significance painted button- quail, brush bronzewing Historic Geomorpho- logy GeologyA Bay. Turtle Land-birds Abrolhos Island Category Feature Conservation Significance Management ImplicationsAccess Land Source Island Island Island WG East Wallabi WG Long Island Geology and WG East Wallabi WG East Wallabi

Inventory of the Land Conservation Values of the Houtman Abrolhos Islands 103 Appendix B et al., Stanbury, 1991; Green and Stanbury, 1988 Storr 1986; Owens, 1996 isitors should avoid vegetated Access to the site should be permitted, but suitable markers and notices should be erected in order to make known the public the management recommendations. V and sandy areas remain on perimeter of the island, isitors should follow code of The whole of the island should be protected as maritime archaeological sites under section. (1) of the (State) Act Maritime Archaeology The island should be 1973. declared a protected zone under section 9. (1) of the (State) Act Maritime Archaeology Any digging be restricted 1973. to bona fide archaeological researchers with the permission WA of the Executive Director, No digging Museum (WAM). and/or major earthworks be undertaken on the island without approval from the No Executive Director (WAM). metal detecting devices be used for the purpose of locating archaeological material with approval from the Executive Director (WAM).Visitors should follow code of conduct for visiting historic areas 1991). (Stanbury, conduct for visiting seabird breeding colonies (Burbidge and Fuller). V High. Historically significant at a national and international level. Medium. Important for seabird conservation. Does not have the same rookery significance as other islands (R.Owens pers. comm.). (1629) Batavia eagles, Pacific gulls, roseate terns breeding colonies survivors’ occupation and slaughter site, gallows site of mutineers, mutineers’ prison. Island Category Feature Conservation Significance Management ImplicationsAccess Land Source WG Long Island Historic WG Long Island Seabirds Fairy terns,

104 Inventory of the Land Conservation Values of the Houtman Abrolhos Islands Appendix B Storr, 1965; Storr, Abbott and Burbidge, 1995 Stanbury, 1991; Green and Stanbury, 1988 Human visitation needs to be managed, though the development of guidelines included in interpretive material. Access to the site should be permitted, but suitable markers and notices should be erected in order to make known the public the management recommendations. Museum. No metal Ensure the habitat of mammals and reptiles is protected from threats such as fire and clearing. Ensure that predators, such as foxes and cats, are not Abrolhos introduced to the Islands, and ongoing eradication of existing feral animal species should occur. Monitor population status of the tammar wallaby and southern bush rat. The small islands of the Morning Reef complex should be protected as maritime archaeological sites under section. (1) of the (State) Act Maritime Archaeology The island should be 1973. declared a protected zone under section 9. (1) of the (State) Act Maritime Archaeology 1973. No digging and/or major earthworks be undertaken on the island without approval from the Executive Director WA detecting devices be used for the purpose of locating archaeological material with approval from the Executive Visitors Director (WAM). should follow code of conduct for visiting historic areas 1991). (Stanbury, 1950. circa circa Re-introduced 1987. Mouse introduced 1970s. Medium. Wallaby introduced Medium. Wallaby Islands ex Wallabi High. Historically significant at a national and international level. ) (1629) Mus Batavia house wallaby, mouse ( musculus survivors’ occupied island. No archaeological evidence located. Historic Island Category Feature Conservation Significance Management ImplicationsAccess Land Source Reef islets WG Morning WG North Island Fauna Tammar

Inventory of the Land Conservation Values of the Houtman Abrolhos Islands 105 Appendix B et et et al., et al., – in prep. . – in prep. Museum Storr, 1960; Storr, Storr 1986 Longman al Longman al. Storr, 1960; Storr, Storr 1986 isitors should avoid walking isitors should not enter V in vegetated areas. Access to pavement limestone communities and dunes consolidated dunes should be restricted. Consider use of designated tracks (day use only) where appropriate, and provide information/ interpretation. Possible restrictions on access for salt lakes and low saltbush flats. V mangroves as it is a habitat highly prone to disturbance at all times. Need to determine whether this bird is still present on North Island and, if so, develop management policies. Not known. No restrictions. WA Maritime Ensure habitat is protected, and feral animals are not introduced. Threats include weed infestation, clearing, landfill, fire, trampling by tourists, grazing by feral animals, dumping of rubbish. Threats include direct clearing, landfill, oil spills, dumping of rubbish, sewage disposal (causing nutrient enrichment). ) on Beagle 100 in 1985. Mainland be assessed. Paper with date

ickham (HMS June 3, 1841. High. In 1960, Storr wrote that this species was extinct on North Island but included it in 1986 paper as being common, with the population estimated circa populations are decreasing. High (potentially). Sub-species Abrolhos is endemic to the Islands. In 1960, Storr wrote that this species was extinct on North Island but included it in no records of 1986 paper, sightings were provided. of visit left by Stokes and W High. Highly sensitive to disturbance, slow rates of regeneration. Salt lake community rare on offshore islands. To High. Rare and special plant Highly productive, community. support food chains, provide breeding habitat. quail. community limestone salt community, lake and low saltbush flats, dunes and consolidated dunes artefacts (pine post, bottle containing paper) wing. Flora Mangrove Island Category Feature Conservation Significance Management ImplicationsAccess Land Source Oystercatcher Island WG North Island Land birds Painted button- WG North Island Flora Pavement WG North Island Historic Record Hill – WG North Island Land birds Brush bronze- WG

106 Inventory of the Land Conservation Values of the Houtman Abrolhos Islands Appendix B et et et al., et al., – in prep. – in prep. Storr, 1965 Storr, 1993 Storr 1960; Storr 1986. Storr 1986. Longman al. Longman al. isitors should avoid walking isitors should avoid walking isitors should not enter isitors should not enter Human visitation needs to be managed, though the development of guidelines included in interpretive material. Public access: restricted. Stanbury, V in vegetated areas. V in vegetated areas. V mangroves as it is a habitat highly prone to disturbance at all times. V mangroves as it is a habitat highly prone to disturbance at all times. Ensure the habitat of reptiles is protected from threats, such as fire and clearing. Ensure that predators, such as foxes and cats, are not Abrolhos introduced to the Islands, and ongoing eradication of existing feral animal species should occur. Pending evaluation. Preservation. Further documentation required. Threats to stone landing are erosion, further development of Visitors wharves and jetties. should follow code of conduct for visiting historic areas 1991). (Stanbury, Consider in management plan. Ensure habitat is protected, and feral animals are not introduced. Consider in management plan. Ensure habitat is protected, and feral animals are not introduced. Threats include direct clearing, landfill, oil spills, dumping of rubbish, sewage disposal (causing nutrient enrichment). Threats include direct clearing, landfill, oil spills, dumping of rubbish, sewage disposal (causing nutrient enrichment). be assessed. Associated with be assessed.

High. Spiny-tailed skink gazetted “rare or otherwise in need of special protection”. guano mining. To High. Painted button-quail sub- species is endemic to the Abrolhos Islands. High. Sub-species is endemic Abrolhos Islands. to the High. Rare and special plant Highly productive, community. support food chains, provide breeding habitat. High. Rare and special plant Highly productive, community. support food chains, provide breeding habitat. skink community rock wall quail, brush bronzewing bronzewing community Reptiles Spiny-tailed Flora Mangrove Historic Guano mining – Land-birds Painted button- Land-birds Brush Island Category Feature Conservation Significance Management ImplicationsAccess Land Source Island Island Island Island Island WG Pigeon WG Seagull WG Pigeon WG Pigeon WG Seagull WG Island Tattler Flora Mangrove

Inventory of the Land Conservation Values of the Houtman Abrolhos Islands 107 Appendix B et al., Storr, 1965 Storr, Storr 1986 Stanbury, 1991; Green and Stanbury, 1988 Human visitation needs to be managed, though the development of guidelines included in interpretive material. Access to the site should be permitted, but suitable markers and notices should be erected in order to make known the public the management recommendations. Museum. No metal Ensure the habitat of reptiles is protected from threats, such as fire and clearing. Ensure that predators, such as foxes and cats, are not Abrolhos introduced to the Islands, and ongoing eradication of existing feral animal species should occur. Breeding in late April and from Breeding in late late July to mid-November. Nests sheltered in foliage. The whole of the island should be protected as maritime archaeological sites under section. (1) of the (State) Act Maritime Archaeology The island should be 1973. declared a protected zone under section 9. (1) of the (State) Act Maritime Archaeology 1973. No digging and/or major earthworks be undertaken on the island without approval from the Executive Director WA detecting devices be used for the purpose of locating archaeological material with approval from the Executive Visitors Director (WAM). should follow code of conduct for visiting historic areas 1991). (Stanbury, High. Historically significant at a national and international level. High. Spiny-tailed skink gazetted “rare or otherwise in need of special protection”. High. Mainland populations are decreasing. (1629) Batavia survivors’ occupied island. No archaeological evidence located. skink bronzewing Historic Island Category Feature Conservation Significance Management ImplicationsAccess Land Source Island WG Traitors WG Island Tattler Reptiles Spiny-tailed WG Island Tattler Land birds Brush

108 Inventory of the Land Conservation Values of the Houtman Abrolhos Islands Appendix B et et et al., – in prep. ., 1994. Storr 1986; Fuller al Storr, 1965; Storr, 1998 FWA, Longman al. isitors should avoid sandy isitors should not enter V All shearwater areas areas. should be avoided all year round. Human visitation needs to be managed, though the development of guidelines included in interpretive material. Determine as part of management plan. V mangroves as it is a habitat which is highly prone to disturbance at all times. est Wallabi Island is needed Wallabi est isitors should follow code of V conduct for visiting seabird breeding colonies (Burbidge and Fuller). Ensure the habitat of mammals and reptiles is protected from threats, such as fire and clearing. Ensure that predators, such as foxes and cats, are not Abrolhos introduced to the Islands, and ongoing eradication of existing feral animal species should occur. Monitor population status of the tammar wallaby and southern bush rat. W to consider all conservation features, possible reserve status, information, interpretation and signage, access. Threats include direct clearing, landfill, oil spills, dumping of rubbish, sewage disposal (causing nutrient enrichment). . The Spinifex longifolius ery High – important for ery High. Tammar wallaby, Tammar ery High. V seabird conservation. V carpet python and spiny-tailed skink gazetted “rare or otherwise in need of special protection”. Bush rats mostly found in sandy areas covered with sub-species of spiny-tailed skink and bearded dragon are Abrolhos endemic to the Islands. High. Rare and special plant Highly productive, community. support food chains, provide breeding habitat. community of wedge-tailed shearwaters (November to April) at the Abrolhos, little shearwaters (winter and spring breeders) wallaby, bush wallaby, rat, spiny-tailed skink, carpet python, bearded dragon Flora Mangrove Fauna Tammar Island Category Feature Conservation Significance Management ImplicationsAccess Land Source Island Island WG Turnstone WGWallabi West General VariousWG High. Very Wallabi West Seabirds Largest colonies Specific management plan for WG WG West

Inventory of the Land Conservation Values of the Houtman Abrolhos Islands 109 Appendix B et – in prep., Longman al. Director of Fisheries (1966); M. Stanbury pers. comm. communities due to isitors should not enter the unstable nature of soil and the possible damage to seabird burrows. Possible restrictions on access for salt lakes and low saltbush flats. No new huts should be built. Access to pavement limestone communities and dunes consolidated dunes should be restricted. Consider use of designated tracks (day use only) where appropriate, and provide information/ should interpretation. Visitors not enter mangroves as it is a habitat highly prone to disturbance at all times. V Atriplex Threats include weed infestation, clearing, landfill, fire, trampling by tourists, grazing by feral animals, dumping of rubbish, oil spills, sewage disposal causing nutrient enrichment. Existing “weeds” indicate areas used by guano miners (e.g. horse wild tomatoes etc.). fodder, provides A.cinerea ery High. Pavement V community highly sensitive to disturbance, slow rates of regeneration. Mangroves a rare and special plant community. Highly productive, support food chains, provide breeding habitat. breeding habitat for burrowing seabirds. Salt lake community islands. rare on offshore Pavement limestone community, dunes and consolidated dunes, mangrove community, Atriplex cinerea dwarf shrubland, salt lake and low salt bush flats Flora & Priority 3 and 2 Flora Island Category Feature Conservation Significance Management ImplicationsAccess Land Source Island WG Wallabi West

110 Inventory of the Land Conservation Values of the Houtman Abrolhos Islands Appendix B Stanbury, 1991; Green and Stanbury, 1988 Stanbury, 1991; Green and Stanbury, 1988; R. Owens pers. comm. Access to the site should be permitted, but suitable markers and notices should be erected in order to make known the public the management recommendations. Access to the site should be permitted, but suitable markers and notices should be erected in order to make known the public the management recommendations. Fort access should always be from one point to minimise trample damage in sensitive areas (see (Owens, 1996) for details). Include this information in a management plan for the island. Maritime 1973. Any isitors should follow code of No digging and/or major earthworks be undertaken on the island without approval from the Executive Director No metal detecting (WAM). devices be used for the purpose of locating archaeological material with approval from the Executive Director (WAM). The two limestone structures should be protected as maritime archaeology sites under section 4 (1) (b) of the (State) Act Maritime Archaeology 1973, each site within a protected zone of 100m radius. The island should be declared a protected zone under section 9. (1) of the (State) Act Archaeology interferences with the structures and/or removal of material from within the zones be prohibited. No digging and/or major earthworks be undertaken on the island without approval from the WA Executive Director Museum. No metal detecting devices be used for the purpose of locating archaeological material with approval from the Executive Director (WAM). V conduct for visiting historic 1991). areas – (Stanbury, Batavia ery High. Historically Medium – High. Fireplaces possibly relate to the incident. V significant at a national and international level. (1629). eibbe-Hayes Middens, Wells, artefacts Batavia Slaughter Point. Limestone structure 1 (Weibbe-Hayes encampment). Limestone structure 2 (could have been built by W or guano miners) Historic Fireplaces (3; Historic Island Category Feature Conservation Significance Management ImplicationsAccess Land Source Island Island WG Wallabi West WG Wallabi West

Inventory of the Land Conservation Values of the Houtman Abrolhos Islands 111 Appendix B et al., Storr, 1960; Storr, Storr 1986. Geraldton Mid-West Regional Development Committee, 1982; Green and Stanbury, 1988; Gray, 1993 isitors should avoid walking V in vegetated areas. Potential for walking trail from the cannery site to guano workings and to explore the flora and fauna. island’s Consider in management plan. Ensure habitat is protected, and feral animals are not introduced. Areas of the island formerly associated with guano mining should be recognised as being historically significant. Appropriately mark site of crayfish cannery and guano operations with interpretive signage. ery High. Painted button-quail V sub-species is endemic to the Abrolhos Islands. Mainland populations of brush bronzewing are decreasing. Medium – High. Historically significant in terms of the pattern of land use and economic development of the Houtman Abrolhos. remains of a jetty (rock piles; tram line and horse yard are located on the western side of the island). Crayfish cannery established in 1931. quail, brush bronzewing Historic Guano mining – Land-birds Painted button- Island Category Feature Conservation Significance Management ImplicationsAccess Land Source Island Island WG Wallabi West WG Wallabi West

112 Inventory of the Land Conservation Values of the Houtman Abrolhos Islands Appendix C

Appendix C

List of Islands in the Houtman Abrolhos, and seabirds recorded breeding on them (Fuller & Burbidge, 1994)

September, 1994 From: P J Fuller et al.: Breeding seabirds of Houtman Abrolhos

Islands in the Houtman Abrolhos, and seabirds recorded breeding on them

Wallabi Group – 1992 Seal Little Shearwater c 250 Akerstrom Little Shearwater c 40 White-faced Storm-Petrel c 70 White-bellied Sea-Eagle 1 Pacific Gull 1 Bridled Tern c 40 Second Sister Osprey 1 Alcatraz Bridled Tern c8 (= Lagoon) Crested Tern 4 (=Lumley) Shag Rock Little Shearwater 20 Beacon Little Shearwater c 5 000 Pied Cormorant 12 White-faced Storm-Petrel no estimate Bridled Tern 5 Osprey 1 Tattler Little Shearwater c 50 Bridled Tern c 700 White-bellied Sea-Eagle 1 Dakin Little Shearwater c 700 Bridled Tern 2 Pacific Gull 1 Third Sister Roseate Tern 139 Dicks White-faced Storm-Petrel c 400 Traitors White-faced Storm-Petrel c 20 Osprey 1 Pacific Gull 1 Bridled Tern c 300 Roseate Tern 81 East Wallabi Osprey 1 Bridled Tern c 5 Caspian Tern 1 Traitors Pied Cormorant 23 Fairy Tern 58 (Islet 1) Bridled Tern 1 Eastern Little Shearwater c 70 Traitors Bridled Tern 2 White-faced Storm-Petrel c 100 (Islet 2) Bridled Tern c 5 Traitors Pied Cormorant 28 Far Roseate Tern 297 (Islet 3) First Sister White-faced Storm-Petrel c 300 Traitors Pacific Gull 1 First Sister White-faced Storm-Petrel 17 (Islet 5) Roseate Tern 2 (Islet 2 to N) Bridled Tern 2 First Sister Pied Cormorant 11 Wann White-faced Storm-Petrel 25 (Islet 3 to N) Osprey 1 Eastern Reef Egret 1 Pacific Gull 1 Osprey 1 Hall Little Shearwater c 20 Bridled Tern 2 Little Pigeon Eastern Reef Egret 1 West Wallabi Wedge-tailed Shearwater 1 022 250 Bridled Tern c 50 Little Shearwater c 9 000 Long Little Shearwater c 700 Osprey 1 Eastern Reef Egret 1 White-bellied Sea-Eagle 1 Easter Group – 1991 Pacific Gull 1 Alexander Wedge-tailed Shearwater c 700 Bridled Tern c 700 Sooty Tern c 50 000 Crested Tern c 60 Alexander Bridled Tern 4 Long Osprey 1 (Islet to S) (Islet to NE) Bushby Pacific Gull 1 Marinula Little Shearwater c 40 Bynoe Little Shearwater 1 200-1 500 Roseate Tern 10 White-faced Storm-Petrel 1 200-1 500 Bridled Tern c 20 Eastern Reef Egret 1 Marinula Roseate Tern 490 Bridled Tern c 200 (Islet to NE) Fairy Tern 25 north Osprey 3 Campbell Little Shearwater c 200 Crested Tern 343 Bridled Tern c 40 Oystercatcher White-bellied Sea-Eagle 1 Campbell Roseate Tern 386 Pelican White-bellied Sea-Eagle 1 (Islet to S) Bridled Tern c 30 Crake Little Shearwater c 40 Pigeon Osprey 1 Bridled Tern c 3 Bridled Tern c 300 Dry White-faced Storm-Petrel 1 000-1 500 Plover Osprey 1 Silver Gull c 7 Silver Gull 2 Bridled Tern c 10 Pacific Gull 1 Gibson Silver Gull 2 Bridled Tern 4 Roseate Tern c 20 Saville-Kent White-faced Storm-Petrel c 300 Bridled Tern 1 Osprey 1 Pacific Gull 1

Inventory of the Land Conservation Values of the Houtman Abrolhos Islands 113 Appendix C

PJ Fuller et al.: Breeding seabirds of Houtman Abrolhos Corella 18(4)

Islands in the Houtman Abrolhos, and seabirds recorded breeding on them – continued

Easter Group – 1991 (continued) Sandy White-faced Storm Petrel c 300 Gilbert White-bellied Sea-Eagle 1 (= Graveyard) White-bellied Sea-Eagle 1 Silver Gull c 8 Serventy Eastern Reef Egret 1 Pacific Gull 1 Osprey 1 Bridled Tern c 10 Silver Gull 4 Gilbert Roseate Tern 98 Roseate Tern 3 (Islet to NW) Pacific Gull 1 Bridled Tern c 40 Bridled Tern 1 Serventy Osprey 1 Helms White-faced Storm-Petrel c 100 (Islet to N) Pacific Gull 1 Shearwater Little Shearwater c 100 Bridled Tern 8 Osprey 1 Fairy Tern c 8 Silver Gull c 5 Helms Bridled Tern 6 Caspian Tern 1 (Islet 1 to SE) Crested Tern c 35 Helms Eastern Reef Egret 1 Shearwater Little Shearwater c 40 (Islet 2 to SE) Pacific Gull 1 (Islet to S) Bridled Tern 10 Bridled Tern 2 Stokes Sooty Tern 1 000-1 500 Helms Bridled Tern 2 Bridled Tern c 40 (Islet 3 to SE) Suomi Little Shearwater c 1 500 Helms Osprey 1 Eastern Reef Egret 1 (Islet 4 to SE) Osprey 1 Joe Smith Silver Gull 8 White-bellied Sea-Eagle 1 Pacific Gull 1 Pacific Gull 2 Bridled Tern 3 Sooty Tern 3 000-5 000 Keru Little Shearwater c 700 Bridled Tern c 1000 Pacific Gull 1 Tapani Pacific Gull 1 Caspian Tern 1 Bridled Tern 5 Sooty Tern 2 000-3 000 Fairy Tern 32 Bridled Tern c 250 White Little Shearwater c 500 Leo Little Shearwater c 3 000 Sooty Tern 5 000-6 000 Osprey 1 Bridled Tern c 10 Sooty Oystercatcher 1 White Pacific Gull 1 Caspian Tern 70 (Islet to S) Roseate Tern 42 Sooty Tern c 20 Wooded Little Shearwater c 2 000 Bridled Tern c 200 Pied Cormorant c 1 000 Crested Tern 600 Little Pied Cormorant 11 Leo Bridled Tern 1 Pacific Gull 2 (Islet to N) Sooty Tern c 500 Little North White-faced Storm-Petrel c 200 Bridled Tern c 500 Pacific Gull 1 Lesser Noddy 5 325 Roseate Tern 552 Sooty Tern c 200 Pelsaert Group – 1993 Bridled Tern c 300 Arthur Osprey 1 Fairy Tern 128 Bridled Tern 2 Little Rat Eastern Reef Egret 1 Basile Bridled Tern c 4 Osprey 1 Burnett Bridled Tern c 6 Bridled Tern c 25 (= Fin) Little Roma White-faced Storm-Petrel c 50 Burnett Bridled Tern 1 Bridled Tern 2 (Islet to N) Morley Little Shearwater c 3 000 Coronation Bridled Tern c 4 Pacific Gull 1 Coronation Caspian Tern 1 Bridled Tern c 50 (2nd Islet NE) Lesser Noddy 11 745 Davis White-bellied Sea-Eagle 1 Rat Osprey 2 Bridled Tern c 20 Rat White-faced Storm-Petrel c 35 Diver Pacific Gull 1 (Islet to N) Osprey 1 Bridled Tern c 3 Crested Tern 4 Eight Pied Cormorant 35 Robertson Bridled Tern 1 Pacific Gull 1 Roma Bridled Tern c 5 Bridled Tern c 70

114 Inventory of the Land Conservation Values of the Houtman Abrolhos Islands Appendix C

September, 1994 P J Fuller et al.: Breeding seabirds of Houtman Abrolhos

Islands in the Houtman Abrolhos, and seabirds recorded breeding on them – continued

Pelsaert Group – 1993 (continued) Pelsaert Caspian Tern 2 Fairbridge Osprey 1 Roseate Tern 365 (= Jackson) Silver Gull 4 Bridled Tern c 1 000 Pacific Gull 1 Sooty Tern 246 000 Fairy Tern 9 Fairy Tern 38 Gaze Osprey 1 Crested Tern 1 013 (Islet to S) Common Noddy 130 000 Gregory Eastern Reef Egret 1 Lesser Noddy 34 870 Roseate Tern 30 Post Office Bridled Tern c 15 Fairy Tern 10 Fairy Tern 5 Gun Wedge-tailed Shearwater c 5 000 Seven Osprey 1 Bridled Tern c 1 000 Pacific Gull 1 Gun Osprey 1 Bridled Tern 4 (Islet adjacent) Seven Pied Cormorant 9 Hummock Little Shearwater c 400 (Islet adjacent) White-bellied Sea-Eagle 1 Ship Rock Silver Gull 1 Iris Refuge Little Shearwater 35 Pacific Gull 1 Pacific Gull 1 Six Osprey 1 Jackson Silver Gull 4 Square White-bellied Sea-Eagle 1 Jon Jim Osprey 1 Pacific Gull 1 Silver Gull 4 Roseate Tern 497 Roseate Tern 105 Stick Little Shearwater c 1 000 Lagoon Osprey 1 White-faced Storm-Petrel c 500 Murray Wedge-tailed Shearwater c 2 000 Osprey 1 Silver Gull 4 Pacific Gull 1 Pacific Gull 1 Bridled Tern c 50 Fairy Tern 57 Sweet Wedge-tailed Shearwater c 200 Newbold Osprey 1 Pied Cormorant 33 Newman Silver Gull c 15 Osprey 2 Fairy Tern 20 Silver Gull 4 One Wedge-tailed Shearwater c 30 Roseate Tern 11 Pied Cormorant 25 Bridled Tern c 15 Eastern Reef Egret 1 The Coral Osprey 1 Osprey 1 Patches Pacific Gull 1 Pacific Gull 1 Roseate Tern 311 Bridled Tern c 50 Fairy Tern 12 Pelsaert Wedge-tailed Shearwater 75 460 Crested Tern 95 Little Shearwater c 50 Three Pacific Gull 2 White-faced Storm-Petrel 12 Bridled Tern 4 Eastern Reef Egret 1 Two Wedge-tailed Shearwater 20 Osprey 3 Bridled Tern 5 White-bellied Sea-Eagle 2 Uncle Margie Pacific Gull 1 Silver Gull 80 (= Mangrove) Bridled Tern c 6 Pacific Gull 8 Fairy Tern 3

Inventory of the Land Conservation Values of the Houtman Abrolhos Islands 115 Appendix C

From: P J Fuller et al.: Breeding seabirds of Houtman Abrolhos Corella 18(4)

Counts and Estimates of Breeding Pairs by Species

Wedge-tailed Shearwater Puffinus pacificus Pied Cormorant Phalacrocorax varius Alexander 700 Eight 35 Davis c 50 First Sister (Islet 3 to north) 11 Gregory 8 One 25 Gun c 5 000 Seven (Islet Adjacent) 9 Middle 120 Shag Rock 12 Murray 2 000 Sweet 33 One c 30 Traitors (Islet 1) 23 Pelsaert 75 460 Traitors (Islet 3) 28 Sweet c 200 Wooded c 1 000 Two 20 TOTAL c 1 176 West Wallabi 1 022 250 TOTALc 1 117 816 Little Pied Cormorant Phalacrocorax melanoleucos Wooded 11 Little Shearwater Puffinus assimilis TOTAL 11 Akerstrom 40 Beacon 5 000 Eastern Reef Egret Egretta sacra Bynoe 1 200 Bynoe 1 Campbell 200 Gregory 1 Crake 30 Helms (Islet 2 to south-east) 1 Dakin 700 Little Pigeon 1 Eastern 70 Little Rat 2 Hall 20 Long 1 Hummock c 400 One 1 Iris Refuge 35 Pelsaert 1 Keru 700 Serventy 1 Leo c 3 000 Suomi 1 Long c 700 Wann 1 Marinula c 40 TOTAL 12 Morley c 3 000 Pelsaert c 50 Osprey Pandion haliaetus Seal c 200 Arthur 1 Shag Rock 20 Beacon 1 Shearwater 100 Burnett 1 Shearwater (Islet to south) 40 Dick 1 Stick c 1 000 East Wallabi 1 Suomi c 1 500 Eastern 1 Tattler c 50 Fairbridge 1 West Wallabi c 9 000 Far 1 White c 500 First Sister (Islet 3 to north) 1 Wooded c 3 000 Gaze (Islet to south) 1 TOTALc 30 555 Gregory 1 Gun (Islet Adjacent) 1 Helms (Islet 4 to south-east) 1 White-faced Storm-Petrel Pelagodroma marina Jon Jim 1 Beacon no estimate Lagoon 1 Bynoe c 1 000 Leo 1 Dick c 400 Little Rat 1 Dry c 1 000 Long (Islet to north) 1 Eastern c 300 Newbold 1 First Sister c 300 North 3 First Sister (Islet to north) 10 One 1 Pelsaert 12 Pelsaert 3 Sandy c 300 Pigeon 1 Saville-Kent c 300 Plover 1 Seal c 60 Rat 2 Stick c 500 Rat (Islet to north) 1 Traitors 20 Saville-Kent 1 Wann 25 Second Sister (Lagoon) 1 TOTALc 4 227 Serventy 1

116 Inventory of the Land Conservation Values of the Houtman Abrolhos Islands Appendix C

September, 1994 P J Fuller et al.: Breeding seabirds of Houtman Abrolhos

Counts and Estimates of Breeding Pairs by Species – continued

Osprey (continued) Gilbert 1 Serventy (Islet to north) 1 Gilbert (Islet to south-west) 1 Seven 1 Gregory 1 Shearwater 1 Gun 1 Six 1 Helms 1 Square 1 Helms (Islet 2 to south-east) 1 Stick 1 Iris Refuge 1 Suomi 1 Joe Smith 1 Sweet 1 Keru 1 The Coral Patches 2 Little North 1 Three 1 Long 1 Wann 1 Morley 1 West Wallabi 1 Murray 1 TOTAL 47 One 1 Pelsaert 8 White-bellied Sea-Eagle Haliaeetus leucogaster Plover 1 Akerstrom 1 Saville-Kent 1 Arthur 1 Seal 1 Davis 1 Seven 1 Gilbert 1 Ship Rock 1 Hummock 1 Square 1 Long 1 Stick 1 Middle 1 Suomi 2 Oystercatcher 1 Tapani 1 Pelican 1 The Coral patches 1 Pelsaert 2 Three 2 Sandy 1 Traitors 1 Square 1 Traitors (Islet 5) 1 Suomi 1 Traitors (Islet to south) 1 Tattler 1 Uncle Margie (= Mangrove) 1 TOTAL15White (Islet to south) 1 Wooded 4 Sooty Oystercatcher Haematopus fuliginosus TOTAL 51 Leo 1 TOTAL1Caspian Tern Hydroprogne caspia Coronation (2nd Islet NE) 1 Silver Gull Larus novaehollandiae Foale 1 Dry 4 Keru 1 Fairbridge 4 Leo 70 Gibson 2 North 3 Gilbert 4 Pelsaert 2 Gun 4 Shearwater 1 Jackson 4 Stick 1 Joe Smith 8 Sweet 1 Jon Jim 4 TOTAL 81 Middle 4 Murray 4 Roseart Tern Sterna dougallii Newman c 15 Campbell (Islet to south) 386 Pelsaert c 90 Fairbridge 12 Plover 2 Far 297 Serventy 4 Gibson 10 Shearwater 4 Gibson (Islet to north) 98 Ship Rock 1 Gregory 30 Sweet 4 Jon Jim 105 TOTALc 162 Little North 552 Marinula 10 Pacific Gull Larus pacificus Marinula (Islet to north east) 490 Bushby 1 Pelsaert 365 Bynoe 1 Serventy 3 Dakin 1 Square 497 Diver 1 Sweet 11 Eight 1 The Coral Patches 311 Fairbridge 1 First Sister (Islet 3 to north) 1

Inventory of the Land Conservation Values of the Houtman Abrolhos Islands 117 Appendix C

PJ Fuller et al.: Breeding seabirds of Houtman Abrolhos Corella 18(4)

Counts and Estimates of Breeding Pairs by Species – continued

Roseate Tern (continued) Robertson 1 Third Sister 139 Roma 4 Traitors 81 Serventy 50 Traitors (Islet to south) 2 Seven 4 White 42 Shag Rock 5 TOTAL3 441 Shearwater (Islet to south) 10 Square 4 Sooty Tern Sterna fuscata Stick 50 Alexander c 40 000 Stokes 50 Keru c 2 000 Suomi c 1 000 Leo c 20 Sweet c 15 Little North c 200 Tapani 5 Pelsaert 208 700 Tattler 2 Stokes c 1 000 Three 5 White c 5 000 Traitors 4 Wooded c 400 Traitors (Islet 1) 1 Suomi c 3 000 Traitors (Islet 2) 2 TOTALc 260 320 Traitors (Islet 5) 2 Two 5 Bridled Tern Sterna anaethetus Uncle Margie (= Mangrove) c 6 Akerstrom c 50 Wann 2 Alcatraz 1 White 4 Alexander (Islet to south) 4 Wooded c 300 Arthur 2 TOTAL C 7 046 Basile 4 Beacon c 700 Fairy Tern Sterna nereis Burnett 6 Bynoe 11 Burnett (Islet to N) 1 East Wallabi 58 Bynoe c 200 Fairbridge 9 Campbell 50 Gregory 10 Coronation 4 Gun 94 Crake 1 Helms 4 Davis 20 Little North 128 Dick c 300 Murray 57 Diver 3 Newman 20 Dry 4 Pelsaert 38 Eastern 4 Post Office 5 Eight c 50 Tapani 32 Fairbridge 4 The Coral Patches 12 Gibson 1 Uncle Margie (= Mangrove) 3 Gilbert c 40 TOTAL 481 Gilbert (Islet to south-west) 1 Gun c 1 000 Crested Tern Sterna bergii Helms 8 Leo 600 Helms (Islet 2 to south-east) 2 Long 60 Helms (Islet 3 to south-east) 2 North 343 Joe Smith 3 Pelsaert 1 013 Keru 300 Rat (Islet to north) 4 Leo 200 Second Sister 4 Leo (Islet to north) 1 Shearwater 35 Little North 300 Sweet 5 Little Pigeon 50 The Coral Patches 95 Little Rat 50 TOTAL 2 159 Little Roma 2 Long c 700 Common Noddy Anous stolidus Marinula 20 Pelsaert 132 000 Morley 50 TOTAL 132 000 One c 50 Pelican 10 Lesser Noddy Anous tenuirostris Pelsaert c 1 000 Morley 7 665 Pigeon c 300 Pelsaert 34 895 Plover 4 Wooded 6 325 Post Office c 15 TOTAL 48 885

118 Inventory of the Land Conservation Values of the Houtman Abrolhos Islands Appendix D

Appendix D

Breeding Chronology of 14 Seabirds which breed in the Pelsaert Group (Surman, 1998)

Little Shearwater

Wedge-tailed Shearwater

White-faced Storm-petrel

Red-tailed Tropicbird

Pacific Gull

Silver Gull

Caspian Tern

Crested Tern

Sooty Tern

Bridled Tern

Roseate Tern

Fairy Tern

Brown Noddy

Lesser Noddy

JASONDJFMAMJ

Breeding chronology of seabirds of the Pelsaert Group, Houtman Abrolhos, Western Australia. The figure summarises trends observed since 1993 and from data compiled from Warham (1956), Tarr (1949) and Surman (1994b). The presence of eggs is shown by the hollow bar, the presence of chicks by the solid bar, and the presence of adults without chicks by a line.

Inventory of the Land Conservation Values of the Houtman Abrolhos Islands 119 Appendix E

Appendix E

Code of conduct for human visitation to Houtman Abrolhos seabird breeding colonies (Abrolhos Islands Consultative Council, 1995)

Notes on Impact of Human Visitation to Houtman Abrolhos Seabird Breeding Colonies

by Andrew Burbidge and Phil Fuller, CALM, WA Wildlife Research Centre

Seabirds that breed in colonies can suffer significant detrimental impact from inappropriate human access, unless it is properly controlled or rules are followed by visitors. Conversely, human visitation can have little or no impact under some conditions and be a valuable experience for visitors.

Many species can tolerate brief (not more than one minute – the one-minute rule) visitations by small groups of people to nesting sites. Long visits can lead to eggs becoming too cold or too hot, or chicks not being fed, or being abandoned by their parents. When visiting a colony or walking near a colony, visitors should take care they do not remain so close that adult birds will not return to nests. Some species are particularly susceptible to interference (see below).

Possible effects of people on seabirds breeding at the Houtman Abrolhos are:

BURROW NESTERS: Wedge-tailed shearwater, little shearwater, white-faced stormpetrel. The burrows of these species can be easily collapsed (with the possible death of the adult or chick, or destruction of the egg) by people walking through colonies. These species fly in the area of the colony only at night and can be attracted to strong lights (there are a few deaths every year of wedge-tailed shearwaters at the Pelsaert Island lighthouse) or fly into objects they are not familiar with (e.g. windmills).

The basic rule for visitors should be never to walk into areas with burrows.

COLONIALLY NESTING TERNS GROUP A (nest in open): Caspian tern, crested tern, roseate tern, fairy tern. These species are little affected by short visits to colonies when breeding is at the egg or very small chick stage: however, gulls may predate eggs or small chicks once adults fly from nest. If gull predation a possibility, the colonies should not be approached within ‘lift-off’ distance. Once the chicks are larger (at the runner stage) they panic easily and will run off cliff edges and into the ocean, where they may drown or be taken by predators such as gulls. Caspian terns nest colonially only at Leo Island. Elsewhere only single nests occur. The same rules apply to single nests as to colonies.

Fairy tern colonies are often hard to see; the eggs and chicks are well camouflaged. Their presence is often indicated by adult birds diving on visitors while calling loudly. Fairy tern adults will often flush from nests when people approach within about 200 or even 300 metres.

The basic rule is never to approach (within 200m) a colony with runners. Unless the party includes an experienced ornithologist, who can competently judge the stage of breeding from a considerable distance, visitors should never approach within 200m (or further if adults flush from nests) of a colony. Move quickly away once birds flush from nests if runners are sighted.

120 Inventory of the Land Conservation Values of the Houtman Abrolhos Islands Appendix E

COLONIAL TERNS GROUP B (nest in vegetation or under rock): Common noddy, lesser noddy, sooty tern, bridled tern. Adults of these species are little affected by brief visitation to the edge of colonies (within 20m of nests). However, once visitors come close enough to cause the nesting birds to fly off the nest, eggs and small chicks will be taken by gulls, so the closeness of approach needs careful monitoring. Retreat if birds are flushed from the nest. Obey the one-minute rule at all times.

CORMORANTS: Pied cormorant, little pied cormorant. Cormorant colonies are very susceptible to interference and should never be approached within 200m unless breeding is only at the egg and very small chick stage. The large pied cormorant colony at the edge of the lagoon at Wooded Island is badly affected by visitors at times. Little pied cormorants breed only at Wooded Island Lagoon in mangroves. The Australian pelican (not recorded breeding at the Abrolhos, but may do so in the future) is also very susceptible to interference and colonies should never be approached within 300m at any time.

RAPTORS: White-bellied sea-eagle, osprey. Brief visits to sea-eagle and osprey nests usually have negligible impact. If eggs are present, the adults will fly off, so visits must be kept short (not more than 1 minute). If chicks are present they will usually ‘freeze’ in a prone position, allowing close approach. However, if the chick shows signs of panic visitors must move away from the nest immediately.

GULLS: Pacific gull, silver gull. Gull colonies may usually be approached for short times. Adults will fly off nests when the approach is too close. When small chicks are present they will usually hide in vegetation or ‘freeze’ near the nest. Again, do not stay in the area for long. Large chicks will sometimes run into the ocean (similar to Group A terns) – if this happens visitors should immediately move away from the area.

OYSTERCATCHERS: Pied oystercatcher, sooty oystercatcher. Oystercatchers have almost invisible nests on beaches (sand or rocks). If people note frantic adult oystercatchers, it usually denotes a nest or chick nearby. If this happens, leave the area.

LARGE WADERS: Eastern reef egret. This species builds large nests from sticks on a cliff ledge or in mangroves. It will readily flush from the nest. If this happens, visitors should move away from the area.

Inventory of the Land Conservation Values of the Houtman Abrolhos Islands 121 Appendix F

Appendix F

Summary of “Guidelines for Managing Visitation to Seabird Breeding Islands” (Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority, 1997)

Summary of Guidelines for Managing Visitation to Seabird Breeding Islands (Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority, 1997)

The table below is a summary of the relevant sections of tables contained in Guidelines for Managing Visitation to Seabird Breeding Islands (Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority, 1997) based on seabird species that the Abrolhos Islands are important for conservation. This table provides information on attributes of seabird breeding biology, together with accounts of incidents of human disturbance of the species and their consequences for seabird breeding.

This information was prepared for seabirds of the Great Barrier Reef and should be used as a management guide only as difference in behaviour and breeding may exist.

Seabird Group Information

Petrels, Prions • Disturbance should be minimised during the colony establishment phase. and Shearwaters • Feral animals and birds have caused significant impacts through to extinctions. • Devegetation of colonies can eliminate nesting sites and lead to soil erosion which destroys burrows. • Fires have destroyed colonies. •Wedge-tailed shearwater susceptible to trampling and predation. Burrows in generally level ground. •Wedge-tailed shearwater breeding numbers have been significantly reduced by cats and rats. • Little shearwater numbers affected by introduced predators. Nests in burrows, crevices and rock cavities.

Storm-Petrels • Disturbance should be minimised during the colony establishment phase. • Most serious threats are the introduction of rats, cats and other predators. • Birds have been known to be attracted to lights. • White-faced storm-petrel shallow burrow in dense vegetation. • Burrows at risk of trampling by humans.

Cormorants • Pied cormorant are susceptible to disturbance by people, boating and sailing. Impacts and Shags include adults leaving nests, adults standing on eggs and predation by gulls. • Little Pied cormorant usually nest in trees on a platform of sticks and debris. • Little Pied cormorant chicks > 2 weeks old are more likely to jump from nests and drown, fall or predated than younger chicks which cling to the nest.

Tropicbirds • Rats and other predators are reported to have eaten nesting adults, eggs and young in some places. • Red-tailed tropicbird nesting generally requires adequate shade, although have been recorded nesting in the open. • Red-tailed tropicbird have been recorded breeding successfully near tourist infrastructure.

Gulls • A number of gull species suffer from intraspecific predation when disturbed by humans. • Pacific gull generally solitary nesting, nest on ground or grass and seaweed. • Islands holding more than five breeding pairs should be closed during the breeding season. • Pacific gulls inhabit gently shelving beaches protected from ocean waves. • Disturbance by humans and attacks from other gulls in mixed colonies are the most significant factors contributing to Pacific gull mortality.

122 Inventory of the Land Conservation Values of the Houtman Abrolhos Islands Appendix F

Seabird Group Information

Terns and Noddies • Rats and cats have wiped out many tern colonies. • Distances to which people can approach before the first terns took flight varies between species, but can be as little as 300m. • Some tern species feed their chicks about once per hour. • Roseate terns usually nest on the ground in slight depression in sand or coral. • Roseate terns disturbed during nesting can lead to abandonment. • Sooty terns form large colonies on islands on ground under low vegetation. • Sooty terns have been known to desert colonies in response to helicopter landings and breed elsewhere. • Sooty terns have been recorded to not fly up in response to the presence of large catamarans within 200m, but took flight in response to the landing and departure of a seaplane within 400m. • Fairy tern breed in small colonies, eggs laid on sand. • Fairy tern threatened by encroaching vegetation, disturbance expanding, Silver gull colonies. • Fairy terns have a high rate of natural nest failure which is believed to be due to flooding from high tides and smothering from shifting sands. Disturbance by people and domestic animals allows predation by gulls and corvids, and in some instances may cause abandonment of the colony. • Crested terns ground nest in large colonies in sand or on shingle and suffer from disturbance and predation by gulls. •Astudy has found crested tern reaction to aircraft noise increases, with increasing noise. • The habit of crested tern chicks forming groups on the beach almost immediately they are mobile, makes them more vulnerable to the impact of human visitation, as visitors usually drive the birds before them as they walk along the shore. • Common noddy build seaweed and stick nests on ground or on a low shrub. Preyed upon by lizards and silver gulls and eastern reef egrets. Disturbed by humans. • Common noddy have been recorded to not fly up in response to the presence of large catamarans within 200m, but took flight in response to landing and departure of a seaplane within 400m. • Lesser noddy nest in trees; seaweed cemented by excreta. Preyed upon by silver gulls and eastern reef egrets. Disturbed by humans. • Lesser noddy relies on local fish stocks so will be susceptible to any changes associated with the fisheries. • Lesser noddy population has very limited distribution, so is susceptible to catastrophic destruction by cyclones, oil spills or similar events.

Inventory of the Land Conservation Values of the Houtman Abrolhos Islands 123

Appendix G

est Wallabi Island Island Wallabi est W

ann Island ann W

urnstone Island urnstone T

“Traitor Islet 6” Islet “Traitor

“Traitor Islet 5” Islet “Traitor

“Traitor Islet 4” Islet “Traitor

“Traitor Islet 3” Islet “Traitor

“Traitor Islet 2” Islet “Traitor

“Traitor Islet 1” Islet “Traitor

raitors Island raitors T

Third Sister Third

“Tectus Island” “Tectus

attler Island attler T

“Short Island” “Short

“Shag Rock” “Shag

Shag Rock Shag

Second Sister Second

Seal Island Seal

Seagull Island Seagull

Saville-Kent Island Saville-Kent

Plover Island Plover Pigeon Island Pigeon

Pelican Island Pelican

Oystercatcher Island Oystercatcher North Island North

“Naturalist Island” “Naturalist

Marinula Island Marinula

Mangrove Island Mangrove

Long Island Long Little Pigeon Island Pigeon Little

Hall Island Hall

“G Island” “G

“First Sister Islet” Sister “First

First Sister First

Far Island Far East Wallabi Island Wallabi East

“East Mangrove Island” Mangrove “East Eastern Island Eastern

“Eagle Point Islet” Point “Eagle

Dick Island Dick

Dakin Island Dakin

Beacon Island Beacon

Barge Rock Barge

Alcatraz Island Alcatraz Akerstorm Island Island Akerstorm rachymene pilosa able 1a. islands,Abrolhos of the Group Wallabi island. on the on each plants found List of vascular occurrence showing Carpobrotus virescens Carpobrotus Disphyma crassifolium subsp. clavellatum *Mesembryanthemum crystallinum Ptilotus divaricatus Ptilotus eriotrichus Ptilotus gaudichaudii Ptilotus obovatus Ptilotus villosiflorus Thysanotus patersonii Apium annuum Apium prostratum Daucus glochidiatus diantha Hydrocotyle T Alyxia buxifolia Appendix G T species. (weed) introduced/naturalized denotes An asterisk 11,Table p. based on (Information et al., 559 in Harvey 2001). Plant name AMARANTHACEAE ANTHERICACEAE APIACEAE APOCYNACEAE AIZOACEAE

124 Inventory of the Land Conservation Values of the Houtman Abrolhos Islands

Appendix G

est Wallabi Island Island Wallabi est W

ann Island ann W

urnstone Island urnstone T

“Traitor Islet 6” Islet “Traitor

“Traitor Islet 5” Islet “Traitor

“Traitor Islet 4” Islet “Traitor

“Traitor Islet 3” Islet “Traitor

“Traitor Islet 2” Islet “Traitor

“Traitor Islet 1” Islet “Traitor

raitors Island raitors T

Third Sister Third

“Tectus Island” “Tectus

attler Island attler T

“Short Island” “Short

“Shag Rock” “Shag

Shag Rock Shag

Second Sister Second

Seal Island Seal

Seagull Island Seagull

Saville-Kent Island Saville-Kent

Plover Island Plover Pigeon Island Pigeon

Pelican Island Pelican Oystercatcher Island Oystercatcher

North Island North

“Naturalist Island” “Naturalist

Marinula Island Marinula

Mangrove Island Mangrove

Long Island Long Little Pigeon Island Pigeon Little

Hall Island Hall “G Island” “G

“First Sister Islet” Sister “First

First Sister First

Far Island Far East Wallabi Island Wallabi East

“East Mangrove Island” Mangrove “East Eastern Island Eastern

“Eagle Point Islet” Point “Eagle

Dick Island Dick

Dakin Island Dakin

Beacon Island Beacon

Barge Rock Barge

Alcatraz Island Alcatraz Akerstorm Island Island Akerstorm ittadinia cuneata ittadinia sp. subsp. australe Bulbine semibarbata Actinobole condensatum Actites megalocarpa Angianthus tomentosus Brachyscome ciliaris Brachyscome iberidifolia Calocephalus aervoides Chthonocephalus tomentellus *Conyza bonariensis Euchiton sphaericus Gnaphalium indutum *Lactuca saligna Olearia axillaris Podotheca angustifolia *Pseudognaphalium luteoalbum Senecio glossanthus Senecio lautus *Sonchus oleraceus picroides *Urospermum V cuneata var. V Sarcostemma viminale Sarcostemma Plant name ASPHODELACEAE ASTERACEAE ASCLEPIADACEAE

Inventory of the Land Conservation Values of the Houtman Abrolhos Islands 125

Appendix G

est Wallabi Island Island Wallabi est W

ann Island ann W

urnstone Island urnstone T

“Traitor Islet 6” Islet “Traitor

“Traitor Islet 5” Islet “Traitor

“Traitor Islet 4” Islet “Traitor

“Traitor Islet 3” Islet “Traitor

“Traitor Islet 2” Islet “Traitor

“Traitor Islet 1” Islet “Traitor

raitors Island raitors T

Third Sister Third

“Tectus Island” “Tectus

attler Island attler T

“Short Island” “Short

“Shag Rock” “Shag

Shag Rock Shag

Second Sister Second

Seal Island Seal

Seagull Island Seagull

Saville-Kent Island Saville-Kent

Plover Island Plover Pigeon Island Pigeon

Pelican Island Pelican

Oystercatcher Island Oystercatcher North Island North

“Naturalist Island” “Naturalist

Marinula Island Marinula

Mangrove Island Mangrove

Long Island Long

Little Pigeon Island Pigeon Little

Hall Island Hall

“G Island” “G

“First Sister Islet” Sister “First First Sister First

Far Island Far East Wallabi Island Wallabi East

“East Mangrove Island” Mangrove “East Eastern Island Eastern

“Eagle Point Islet” Point “Eagle

Dick Island Dick Dakin Island Dakin

Beacon Island Beacon

Barge Rock Barge Alcatraz Island Alcatraz

Akerstorm Island Island Akerstorm vicennia marina richodesma VICENNIACEAE A Cynoglossum australe *Echium plantagineum T zeylanicum *Brassica rapa *Cakile maritima *Hornungia procumbens *Hymenolobus procumbens Lepidium lyratogynum Lepidium pseudoruderale Lepidium puberulum *Raphanus raphanistrum *Sisymbrium orientale Capparis spinosa *Polycarpon tetraphyllum *Sagina apetala rubra *Spergularia *Stellaria media Plant name BORAGINACEAE BRASSICACEAE CAPPARACEAE CARYOPHYLLACEAE A

126 Inventory of the Land Conservation Values of the Houtman Abrolhos Islands

Appendix G

est Wallabi Island Island Wallabi est W

ann Island ann W

urnstone Island urnstone T

“Traitor Islet 6” Islet “Traitor

“Traitor Islet 5” Islet “Traitor

“Traitor Islet 4” Islet “Traitor

“Traitor Islet 3” Islet “Traitor

“Traitor Islet 2” Islet “Traitor “Traitor Islet 1” Islet “Traitor

raitors Island raitors T

Third Sister Third

“Tectus Island” “Tectus

attler Island attler T

“Short Island” “Short

“Shag Rock” “Shag

Shag Rock Shag

Second Sister Second

Seal Island Seal Seagull Island Seagull

Saville-Kent Island Saville-Kent

Plover Island Plover Pigeon Island Pigeon

Pelican Island Pelican

Oystercatcher Island Oystercatcher North Island North

“Naturalist Island” “Naturalist

Marinula Island Marinula

Mangrove Island Mangrove

Long Island Long Little Pigeon Island Pigeon Little

Hall Island Hall

“G Island” “G

“First Sister Islet” Sister “First

First Sister First

Far Island Far East Wallabi Island Wallabi East

“East Mangrove Island” Mangrove “East

Eastern Island Eastern “Eagle Point Islet” Point “Eagle

Dick Island Dick

Dakin Island Dakin

Beacon Island Beacon

Barge Rock Barge Alcatraz Island Alcatraz

Akerstorm Island Island Akerstorm urmbea monantha Atriplex cinerea Atriplex sp Atriplex paludosa Atriplex vesicaria subsp. variabilis Chenopodium melanocarpum *Chenopodium murale Chenopodium nitrariaceum Dysphania plantaginella Enchylaena tomentosa Halosarcia halocnemoides indica Halosarcia subsp. bidens sp. Halosarcia Rhagodia baccata Rhagodia latifolia *Salsola kali quinqueflora Sarcocornia arbuscula Sclerostegia Suaeda australis diffusa Threlkeldia W *Bryophyllum sp. Crassula colorata Cotyledon orbiculata Plant name COLCHICACEAE CHENOPODIACEAE CRASSULACEAE

Inventory of the Land Conservation Values of the Houtman Abrolhos Islands 127

Appendix G

est Wallabi Island Island Wallabi est W

ann Island ann W

urnstone Island urnstone T

“Traitor Islet 6” Islet “Traitor

“Traitor Islet 5” Islet “Traitor

“Traitor Islet 4” Islet “Traitor

“Traitor Islet 3” Islet “Traitor

“Traitor Islet 2” Islet “Traitor

“Traitor Islet 1” Islet “Traitor

raitors Island raitors T

Third Sister Third

“Tectus Island” “Tectus

attler Island attler T

“Short Island” “Short

“Shag Rock” “Shag

Shag Rock Shag

Second Sister Second

Seal Island Seal

Seagull Island Seagull

Saville-Kent Island Saville-Kent

Plover Island Plover Pigeon Island Pigeon

Pelican Island Pelican Oystercatcher Island Oystercatcher

North Island North

“Naturalist Island” “Naturalist

Marinula Island Marinula

Mangrove Island Mangrove

Long Island Long Little Pigeon Island Pigeon Little

Hall Island Hall

“G Island” “G

“First Sister Islet” Sister “First

First Sister First

Far Island Far East Wallabi Island Wallabi East

“East Mangrove Island” Mangrove “East

Eastern Island Eastern “Eagle Point Islet” Point “Eagle

Dick Island Dick

Dakin Island Dakin

Beacon Island Beacon Barge Rock Barge

Alcatraz Island Alcatraz Akerstorm Island Island Akerstorm clematideum *Isolepis marginata Isolepis nodosa Acanthocarpus preissii Hibbertia racemosa Leucopogon insularis Beyeria viscosa Euphorbia boophthona Euphorbia drummondii Euphorbia tannensis *Euphorbia terracina Phyllanthus calycinus Frankenia pauciflora *Centaurium maritimum *Centaurium spicatum cicutarium *Erodium cygnorum Erodium littorale Pelargonium Aphanopetalum Plant name CYPERACEAE DASYPOGONACEAE DILLENIACEAE EPACRIDACEAE EUPHORBIACEAE FRANKENIACEAE GENTIANACEAE GERANIACEAE CUNONIACEAE

128 Inventory of the Land Conservation Values of the Houtman Abrolhos Islands

Appendix G

est Wallabi Island Island Wallabi est W

ann Island ann W

urnstone Island urnstone T

“Traitor Islet 6” Islet “Traitor

“Traitor Islet 5” Islet “Traitor

“Traitor Islet 4” Islet “Traitor

“Traitor Islet 3” Islet “Traitor

“Traitor Islet 2” Islet “Traitor

“Traitor Islet 1” Islet “Traitor

raitors Island raitors T

Third Sister Third

“Tectus Island” “Tectus

attler Island attler T

“Short Island” “Short

“Shag Rock” “Shag

Shag Rock Shag

Second Sister Second

Seal Island Seal

Seagull Island Seagull

Saville-Kent Island Saville-Kent

Plover Island Plover

Pigeon Island Pigeon Pelican Island Pelican

Oystercatcher Island Oystercatcher North Island North

“Naturalist Island” “Naturalist

Marinula Island Marinula

Mangrove Island Mangrove

Long Island Long Little Pigeon Island Pigeon Little

Hall Island Hall

“G Island” “G

“First Sister Islet” Sister “First First Sister First

Far Island Far East Wallabi Island Wallabi East

“East Mangrove Island” Mangrove “East

Eastern Island Eastern

“Eagle Point Islet” Point “Eagle Dick Island Dick

Dakin Island Dakin

Beacon Island Beacon Barge Rock Barge

Alcatraz Island Alcatraz

Akerstorm Island Island Akerstorm estringia dampieri riglochin centrocarpum riglochin mucronatum riglochin muelleri riglochin trichophorum Scaevola crassifolia Haloragis trigonocarpa *Juncus bufonius T T T T W *Aloe sp. Phyllangium paradoxum Lavatera plebeia *Malva parviflora Sida spodochroma Acacia didyma glabra Eremophila deserti Eremophila Myoporum insulare Plant name HALORAGACEAE JUNCACEAE JUNCAGINACEAE LAMIACEAE LILIACEAE LOGANIACEAE MALVACEAE MIMOSACEAE MYOPORACEAE GOODENIACEAE

Inventory of the Land Conservation Values of the Houtman Abrolhos Islands 129

Appendix G

est Wallabi Island Island Wallabi est W

ann Island ann W

urnstone Island urnstone T

“Traitor Islet 6” Islet “Traitor

“Traitor Islet 5” Islet “Traitor

“Traitor Islet 4” Islet “Traitor

“Traitor Islet 3” Islet “Traitor

“Traitor Islet 2” Islet “Traitor

“Traitor Islet 1” Islet “Traitor

raitors Island raitors T

Third Sister Third

“Tectus Island” “Tectus

attler Island attler T

“Short Island” “Short

“Shag Rock” “Shag

Shag Rock Shag

Second Sister Second

Seal Island Seal

Seagull Island Seagull

Saville-Kent Island Saville-Kent

Plover Island Plover Pigeon Island Pigeon

Pelican Island Pelican Oystercatcher Island Oystercatcher

North Island North

“Naturalist Island” “Naturalist

Marinula Island Marinula

Mangrove Island Mangrove

Long Island Long Little Pigeon Island Pigeon Little

Hall Island Hall

“G Island” “G

“First Sister Islet” Sister “First

First Sister First

Far Island Far East Wallabi Island Wallabi East

“East Mangrove Island” Mangrove “East

Eastern Island Eastern “Eagle Point Islet” Point “Eagle

Dick Island Dick

Dakin Island Dakin Beacon Island Beacon

Barge Rock Barge

Alcatraz Island Alcatraz Akerstorm Island Island Akerstorm Eucalyptus oraria Epilobium billardierianum minor *Orobanche media Microtis sp. Microtis *Oxalis corniculata Bossiaea spinescens *Medicago polymorpha *Melilotus indicus Mirbelia ramulosa Dianella revoluta Pittosporum phylliraeoides Plantago debilis Muellerolimon salicorniaceum APILIONACEAE Plant name ONAGRACEAE OROBANCHACEAE ORCHIDACEAE OXALIDACEAE P PHORMIACEAE PITTOSPORACEAE PLANTAGINACEAE PLUMBAGINACEAE MYRTACEAE

130 Inventory of the Land Conservation Values of the Houtman Abrolhos Islands

Appendix G

est Wallabi Island Island Wallabi est W

ann Island ann W

urnstone Island urnstone T

“Traitor Islet 6” Islet “Traitor

“Traitor Islet 5” Islet “Traitor

“Traitor Islet 4” Islet “Traitor

“Traitor Islet 3” Islet “Traitor

“Traitor Islet 2” Islet “Traitor

“Traitor Islet 1” Islet “Traitor

raitors Island raitors T

Third Sister Third

“Tectus Island” “Tectus

attler Island attler T

“Short Island” “Short

“Shag Rock” “Shag

Shag Rock Shag

Second Sister Second Seal Island Seal

Seagull Island Seagull

Saville-Kent Island Saville-Kent

Plover Island Plover Pigeon Island Pigeon

Pelican Island Pelican

Oystercatcher Island Oystercatcher North Island North

“Naturalist Island” “Naturalist

Marinula Island Marinula

Mangrove Island Mangrove Long Island Long

Little Pigeon Island Pigeon Little

Hall Island Hall

“G Island” “G

“First Sister Islet” Sister “First

First Sister First

Far Island Far East Wallabi Island Wallabi East

“East Mangrove Island” Mangrove “East Eastern Island Eastern

“Eagle Point Islet” Point “Eagle Dick Island Dick

Dakin Island Dakin Beacon Island Beacon

Barge Rock Barge

Alcatraz Island Alcatraz

Akerstorm Island Island Akerstorm Agrostis avenacea Agrostis Austrodanthonia caespitosa crinita Austrostipa Austrostipa elegantissima flavescens Austrostipa variabilis Austrostipa barbata *Avena fatua *Avena sp. *Avena arenarius Bromus diandrus *Bromus hordeaceus *Bromus japonicus *Bromus vestitus var. madritensis *Bromus *Cynodon dactylon brevifolia *Ehrharta longiflora *Ehrharta dielsii Eragrostis leporinum *Hordeum *Lolium multiflorum *Lolium perenne *Lolium rigidum *Parapholis incurva *Phalaris minor *Poa annua Poa poiformis *Polypogon monspeliensis Polypogon tenellus *Rostraria cristata Plant name POACEAE

Inventory of the Land Conservation Values of the Houtman Abrolhos Islands 131

Appendix G

est Wallabi Island Island Wallabi est W

ann Island ann W

urnstone Island urnstone T

“Traitor Islet 6” Islet “Traitor

“Traitor Islet 5” Islet “Traitor

“Traitor Islet 4” Islet “Traitor

“Traitor Islet 3” Islet “Traitor

“Traitor Islet 2” Islet “Traitor

“Traitor Islet 1” Islet “Traitor

raitors Island raitors T

Third Sister Third

“Tectus Island” “Tectus

attler Island attler T

“Short Island” “Short

“Shag Rock” “Shag

Shag Rock Shag

Second Sister Second

Seal Island Seal

Seagull Island Seagull

Saville-Kent Island Saville-Kent

Plover Island Plover Pigeon Island Pigeon

Pelican Island Pelican

Oystercatcher Island Oystercatcher North Island North

“Naturalist Island” “Naturalist

Marinula Island Marinula

Mangrove Island Mangrove

Long Island Long Little Pigeon Island Pigeon Little

Hall Island Hall

“G Island” “G

“First Sister Islet” Sister “First

First Sister First

Far Island Far East Wallabi Island Wallabi East

“East Mangrove Island” Mangrove “East

Eastern Island Eastern “Eagle Point Islet” Point “Eagle

Dick Island Dick

Dakin Island Dakin Beacon Island Beacon

Barge Rock Barge

Alcatraz Island Alcatraz Akerstorm Island Island Akerstorm Setaria dielsii Setaria sp. Spinifex longifolius virginicus Sporobolus aestivum *Triticum myuros *Vulpia *Emex australis Calandrinia calyptrata *Anagallis arvensis argyrophylla Grevillea Ranunculus sessiliflorus Spyridium globulosum Galium migrans vaginata Opercularia Diplolaena grandiflora Exocarpos aphyllus Exocarpos sparteus Plant name POLYGONACEAE PORTULACACEAE PRIMULACEAE PROTEACEAE RANUNCULACEAE RHAMNACEAE RUBIACEAE RUTACEAE SANTALACEAE

132 Inventory of the Land Conservation Values of the Houtman Abrolhos Islands

Appendix G

est Wallabi Island Island Wallabi est W

ann Island ann W

urnstone Island urnstone T

“Traitor Islet 6” Islet “Traitor

“Traitor Islet 5” Islet “Traitor

“Traitor Islet 4” Islet “Traitor

“Traitor Islet 3” Islet “Traitor

“Traitor Islet 2” Islet “Traitor

“Traitor Islet 1” Islet “Traitor

raitors Island raitors T

Third Sister Third

“Tectus Island” “Tectus

attler Island attler T

“Short Island” “Short

“Shag Rock” “Shag

Shag Rock Shag

Second Sister Second

Seal Island Seal Seagull Island Seagull

Saville-Kent Island Saville-Kent

Plover Island Plover Pigeon Island Pigeon

Pelican Island Pelican Oystercatcher Island Oystercatcher

North Island North

“Naturalist Island” “Naturalist

Marinula Island Marinula

Mangrove Island Mangrove Long Island Long

Little Pigeon Island Pigeon Little

Hall Island Hall

“G Island” “G

“First Sister Islet” Sister “First

First Sister First

Far Island Far East Wallabi Island Wallabi East

“East Mangrove Island” Mangrove “East Eastern Island Eastern

“Eagle Point Islet” Point “Eagle

Dick Island Dick Dakin Island Dakin

Beacon Island Beacon

Barge Rock Barge Alcatraz Island Alcatraz

Akerstorm Island Island Akerstorm ripterococcus brunonis ripterococcus Dodonaea aptera Dodonaea inaequifolia Dodonaea viscosa *Dischisma arenarium *Nicotiana glauca Nicotiana occidentalis subsp. hesperis *Solanum laciniatum *Solanum nigrum Solanum symonii Stackhousia sp. Stackhousia viminea T Lasiopetalum angustifolium sp. *Tamarix Pimelea microcephala Parietaria cardiostegia Parietaria debilis *Urtica urens Nitraria billardierei Zygophyllum simile AMARICACEAE Plant name SOLANACEAE STACKHOUSIACEAE STERCULIACEAE THYMELAEACEAE URTICACEAE ZYGOPHYLLACEAE SCROPHULARIACEAE T SAPINDACEAE

Inventory of the Land Conservation Values of the Houtman Abrolhos Islands 133

Appendix G

ooded Island ooded W White Island White

White Bank White

apani Island apani T

Suomi Island Suomi

Stokes Island Stokes

“Shearwater Islet” “Shearwater

Shearwater Island Shearwater Serventy Island Serventy

Sandy Island Sandy

Roma Island Roma Rat Island Rat

“Nitraria Island” “Nitraria

Morley Island Morley

“Little Stokes Island” Stokes “Little

Little Roma Island Roma Little Little Rat Island Rat Little

Little North Island North Little

“Leo Islet 2” Islet “Leo

“Leo Islet 1” Islet “Leo Leo Island Leo

“Landscope Island” “Landscope

Keru Island Keru

Joe Smith Island Smith Joe

“Helms Islet 2” Islet “Helms

Helms Island Helms

Gilbert Island Gilbert Gibson Island Gibson

Dry Island Dry Crake Island Crake

Campbell Island Campbell

Bynoe Island Bynoe Bushby Island Bushby

Alexander Island Alexander sp. clavellatum able 1b. islands,Abrolhos of the Group in the Easter plants found List of vascular island. on each occurrence showing Carpobrotus Carpobrotus virescens Carpobrotus Disphyma crassifolium subsp. crystallinum Sesuvium portulacastrum decumbens *Tetragonia Ptilotus gaudichaudii Apium annuum Daucus glochidiatus diantha Hydrocotyle crispum *Petroselinum Bulbine semibarbata *Cakile maritima Brachyscome ciliaris *Conyza albida *Conyza bonariensis Euchiton sphaericus Gnaphalium indutum Olearia axillari *Mesembryanthemum T species. (weed) introduced/naturalized denotes An asterisk 11,Table p. based on (Information et al., 559 in Harvey 2001). Plant name AMARANTHACEAE APIACEAE ASPHODELACEAE ASTERACEAE AIZOACEAE

134 Inventory of the Land Conservation Values of the Houtman Abrolhos Islands

Appendix G

ooded Island ooded W White Island White

White Bank White

apani Island apani T Suomi Island Suomi

Stokes Island Stokes

“Shearwater Islet” “Shearwater

Shearwater Island Shearwater

Serventy Island Serventy

Sandy Island Sandy

Roma Island Roma Rat Island Rat

“Nitraria Island” “Nitraria

Morley Island Morley

“Little Stokes Island” Stokes “Little Little Roma Island Roma Little

Little Rat Island Rat Little

Little North Island North Little

“Leo Islet 2” Islet “Leo

“Leo Islet 1” Islet “Leo Leo Island Leo

“Landscope Island” “Landscope Keru Island Keru

Joe Smith Island Smith Joe

“Helms Islet 2” Islet “Helms

Helms Island Helms Gilbert Island Gilbert

Gibson Island Gibson

Dry Island Dry Crake Island Crake

Campbell Island Campbell

Bynoe Island Bynoe

Bushby Island Bushby Alexander Island Alexander ahlenbergia gracilis ahlenbergia ahlenbergia multicaulis ahlenbergia vicennia marina VICENNIACEAE *Pseudognaphalium luteoalbum tingitana *Reichardia Senecio lautus *Sonchus oleraceus *Sonchus tenerrimus picroides *Urospermum *Ursinia anthemoides A *Cakile maritima *Hornungia procumbens Lepidium lyratogynum Lepidium puberulum *Raphanus raphanistrum *Raphanus sativus *Sisymbrium irio *Sisymbrium orientale *Opuntia stricta W W velutina *Petrorhagia *Polycarpon tetraphyllum *Silene gallica *Silene nocturna nesophila Spergularia Plant name A BRASSICACEAE CACTACEAE CAMPANULACEAE CARYOPHYLLACEAE

Inventory of the Land Conservation Values of the Houtman Abrolhos Islands 135

Appendix G

ooded Island ooded W White Island White

White Bank White

apani Island apani T

Suomi Island Suomi

Stokes Island Stokes

“Shearwater Islet” “Shearwater

Shearwater Island Shearwater Serventy Island Serventy

Sandy Island Sandy Roma Island Roma

Rat Island Rat

“Nitraria Island” “Nitraria

Morley Island Morley

“Little Stokes Island” Stokes “Little

Little Roma Island Roma Little Little Rat Island Rat Little

Little North Island North Little

“Leo Islet 2” Islet “Leo “Leo Islet 1” Islet “Leo

Leo Island Leo

“Landscope Island” “Landscope Keru Island Keru

Joe Smith Island Smith Joe

“Helms Islet 2” Islet “Helms

Helms Island Helms Gilbert Island Gilbert

Gibson Island Gibson Dry Island Dry

Crake Island Crake

Campbell Island Campbell Bynoe Island Bynoe

Bushby Island Bushby

Alexander Island Alexander urmbea monantha *Spergularia rubra *Spergularia Atriplex bunburyana Atriplex cinerea Atriplex paludosa subsp. baudinii Atriplex sp *Chenopodium album *Chenopodium murale Enchylaena tomentosa Halosarcia halocnemoides indica Halosarcia subsp. bidens Rhagodia sp. Rhagodia preissii subsp. obovata *Salsola kali quinqueflora Sarcocornia Suaeda australis diffusa Threlkeldia W *Ipomoea cairica *Bryophyllum sp. Crassula colorata Crassula exserta Plant name CHENOPODIACEAE COLCHICACEAE CRASSULACEAE CONVOLVULACEAE

136 Inventory of the Land Conservation Values of the Houtman Abrolhos Islands

Appendix G

ooded Island ooded W White Island White

White Bank White

apani Island apani T Suomi Island Suomi

Stokes Island Stokes “Shearwater Islet” “Shearwater

Shearwater Island Shearwater

Serventy Island Serventy

Sandy Island Sandy

Roma Island Roma Rat Island Rat

“Nitraria Island” “Nitraria

Morley Island Morley

“Little Stokes Island” Stokes “Little

Little Roma Island Roma Little Little Rat Island Rat Little

Little North Island North Little

“Leo Islet 2” Islet “Leo

“Leo Islet 1” Islet “Leo

Leo Island Leo

“Landscope Island” “Landscope Keru Island Keru

Joe Smith Island Smith Joe

“Helms Islet 2” Islet “Helms

Helms Island Helms

Gilbert Island Gilbert

Gibson Island Gibson

Dry Island Dry Crake Island Crake

Campbell Island Campbell

Bynoe Island Bynoe Bushby Island Bushby

Alexander Island Alexander riglochin trichophorum *Cucurbita pepo Euphorbia drummondii *Euphorbia terracina Frankenia pauciflora *Centaurium erythraea cicutarium *Erodium zonale Pelargonium Scaevola crassifolia T Lavatera cretica Lavatera plebeia Lavatera sp. *Malva parviflora Myoporum insulare *Medicago polymorpha *Medicago sp. *Melilotus indicus APILIONACEAE Plant name EUPHORBIACEAE FRANKENIACEAE GENTIANACEAE GERANIACEAE GOODENIACEAE JUNCAGINACEAE MYOPORACEAE P CUCUBITACEAE MALVACEAE

Inventory of the Land Conservation Values of the Houtman Abrolhos Islands 137

Appendix G

ooded Island ooded W

White Island White

White Bank White

apani Island apani T

Suomi Island Suomi

Stokes Island Stokes

“Shearwater Islet” “Shearwater

Shearwater Island Shearwater Serventy Island Serventy

Sandy Island Sandy Roma Island Roma

Rat Island Rat

“Nitraria Island” “Nitraria Morley Island Morley

“Little Stokes Island” Stokes “Little

Little Roma Island Roma Little Little Rat Island Rat Little

Little North Island North Little

“Leo Islet 2” Islet “Leo

“Leo Islet 1” Islet “Leo Leo Island Leo

“Landscope Island” “Landscope Keru Island Keru

Joe Smith Island Smith Joe

“Helms Islet 2” Islet “Helms

Helms Island Helms Gilbert Island Gilbert

Gibson Island Gibson

Dry Island Dry

Crake Island Crake Campbell Island Campbell

Bynoe Island Bynoe

Bushby Island Bushby

Alexander Island Alexander Plantago coronopus Muellerolimon salicorniaceum variabilis Austrostipa barbata *Avena fatua *Avena sp. *Avena arenarius Bromus diandrus *Bromus sp. Bromus *Cynodon dactylon *Cynodon sp. longiflora *Ehrharta dielsii Eragrostis leporinum *Hordeum *Lolium temulentum *Parapholis incurva *Pennisetum clandestinum *Phalaris minor *Rostraria cristata Setaria dielsii Spinifex longifolius myuros *Vulpia *Emex australis *Anagallis arvensi Plant name PLUMBAGINACEAE POACEAE POLYGONACEAE PRIMULACEAE PLANTAGINACEAE

138 Inventory of the Land Conservation Values of the Houtman Abrolhos Islands

Appendix G

ooded Island ooded W

White Island White

White Bank White

apani Island apani T

Suomi Island Suomi

Stokes Island Stokes

“Shearwater Islet” “Shearwater

Shearwater Island Shearwater

Serventy Island Serventy

Sandy Island Sandy

Roma Island Roma Rat Island Rat

“Nitraria Island” “Nitraria Morley Island Morley

“Little Stokes Island” Stokes “Little

Little Roma Island Roma Little Little Rat Island Rat Little

Little North Island North Little

“Leo Islet 2” Islet “Leo

“Leo Islet 1” Islet “Leo

Leo Island Leo

“Landscope Island” “Landscope Keru Island Keru

Joe Smith Island Smith Joe

“Helms Islet 2” Islet “Helms

Helms Island Helms

Gilbert Island Gilbert

Gibson Island Gibson

Dry Island Dry

Crake Island Crake

Campbell Island Campbell Bynoe Island Bynoe

Bushby Island Bushby

Alexander Island Alexander Diplolaena grandiflora ferocissimum *Lycium esculentum *Lycopersicon Nicotiana occidentalis subsp. hesperis *Solanum nigrum Parietaria cardiostegia Parietaria debilis Nitraria billardierei Plant name SOLANACEAE URTICACEAE ZYGOPHYLLACEAE RUTACEAE

Inventory of the Land Conservation Values of the Houtman Abrolhos Islands 139 140

Table 1c. List of vascular plants found in the Pelsaert Group of the Abrolhos islands, showing occurrence on each island. Appendix G An asterisk denotes introduced/naturalized (weed) species. (Information based on Table 11, p. 559 in Harvey et al., 2001). Inventory of theLandConservation Values oftheHoutman Abrolhos Islands Ship rock wo Island One Island Gun Island T “Gun Islet” ravia island Gaze Island Stick Island Eight Island Foale Island Nook Island Three Island Davis Island Seven Island Sweet Island Basile Island Sandy Island T “Seven Islet” Arthur Island Burnett Rock Square Island Burton Island Middle Island “Gaze Islet 1” Murray Island Lagoon Island Jon Jim Island Pelsaert Island Jackson Island Gregory Island Newman Island The Coral Patch Robertson Island Hummock Island Post office Island Post office Rotondella Island Iris Refuge Island Sid Liddon Island Coronation Island

Plant name Island Uncle Margie “Little Jackson Island” AIZOACEAE Carpobrotus virescens. *Mesembryanthemum crystallinum

APIACEAE Apium prostratum Daucus glochidiatus Hydrocotyle diantha ASCLEPIADACEAE Sarcostemma viminale subsp. australe

ASPHODELACEAE Bulbine semibarbata

ASTERACEAE Actites megalocarpa *Erigeron karvinskianus *Hypochaeris glabra *Reichardia tingitana Senecio lautus *Sonchus oleraceus *Sonchus tenerrimus *Urospermum picroides *Ursinia anthemoides AVICENNIACEAE Avicennia marina

Appendix G

Uncle Margie Island Island Margie Uncle

wo Island wo T

ravia island ravia T Three Island Three

The Coral Patch Coral The Sweet Island Sweet

Stick Island Stick

Square Island Square

Sid Liddon Island Liddon Sid

Ship rock rock Ship

“Seven Islet” “Seven

Seven Island Seven

Sandy Island Sandy Rotondella Island Rotondella

Robertson Island Robertson

Post office Island office Post Pelsaert Island Pelsaert

One Island One

Nook Island Nook Newman Island Newman

Murray Island Murray

Middle Island Middle

“Little Jackson Island” Jackson “Little

Lagoon Island Lagoon

Jon Jim Island Jim Jon

Jackson Island Jackson

Iris Refuge Island Refuge Iris

Hummock Island Hummock

“Gun Islet” “Gun Gun Island Gun

Gregory Island Gregory

“Gaze Islet 1” Islet “Gaze Gaze Island Gaze

Foale Island Foale Eight Island Eight

Davis Island Davis Coronation Island Coronation

Burton Island Burton

Burnett Rock Burnett

Basile Island Basile

Arthur Island Arthur *Cakile maritima *Hornungia procumbens Lepidium pseudoruderale *Raphanus raphanistrum *Raphanus sativu *Sisymbrium orientale *Opuntia stricta *Cerastium glomeratum *Polycarpon tetraphyllum diandra *Spergularia rubra *Spergularia Atriplex amnicola Atriplex cinerea Atriplex sp *Chenopodium murale Enchylaena tomentosa Halosarcia halocnemoides indica Halosarcia subsp. Bidens *Salsola kali quinqueflora Sarcocornia arbuscula Sclerostegia Suaeda australis diffusa Threlkeldia Plant name CACTACEAE CARYOPHYLLACEAE CHENOPODIACEAE BRASSICACEAE

Inventory of the Land Conservation Values of the Houtman Abrolhos Islands 141

142 Inventory of the Land Conservation Values of the Houtman Abrolhos Islands Abrolhos Houtman the of Values Conservation Land the of Inventory CRASSULACEAE Plant name EUPHORBIACEAE PITTOSPORACEAE P MYOPORACEAE MALVACEAE JUNCAGINACEAE GOODENIACEAE GERANIACEAE GENTIANACEAE FRANKENIACEAE APILIONACEAE Crassula colorata Pittosporum phylliraeoides *Melilotus indicus *Medicago polymorpha Myoporum insulare Eremophila glabra *Malva parviflora Lavatera plebeia T T Scaevola crassifolia *Erodium cicutarium *Centaurium spicatum Frankenia pauciflora Euphorbia tannensis Euphorbia drummondii riglochin trichophorum riglochin mucronatum

Arthur Island Basile Island Burnett Rock Burton Island Coronation Island Davis Island Eight Island Foale Island Gaze Island “Gaze Islet 1” Gregory Island Gun Island “Gun Islet” Hummock Island Iris Refuge Island Jackson Island Jon Jim Island Lagoon Island “Little Jackson Island” Middle Island Murray Island Newman Island Nook Island One Island Pelsaert Island Post office Island Robertson Island Rotondella Island Sandy Island Seven Island “Seven Islet” Ship rock Sid Liddon Island Square Island Stick Island Sweet Island The Coral Patch Three Island Travia island Two Island

Uncle Margie Island Appendix G Appendix

Appendix G Uncle Margie Island Island Margie Uncle

wo Island wo T

ravia island ravia T Three Island Three

The Coral Patch Coral The

Sweet Island Sweet Stick Island Stick

Square Island Square

Sid Liddon Island Liddon Sid

Ship rock rock Ship

“Seven Islet” “Seven

Seven Island Seven

Sandy Island Sandy Rotondella Island Rotondella

Robertson Island Robertson Post office Island office Post

Pelsaert Island Pelsaert

One Island One

Nook Island Nook Newman Island Newman

Murray Island Murray

Middle Island Middle

“Little Jackson Island” Jackson “Little

Lagoon Island Lagoon

Jon Jim Island Jim Jon

Jackson Island Jackson

Iris Refuge Island Refuge Iris Hummock Island Hummock

“Gun Islet” “Gun

Gun Island Gun

Gregory Island Gregory

“Gaze Islet 1” Islet “Gaze

Gaze Island Gaze

Foale Island Foale

Eight Island Eight

Davis Island Davis

Coronation Island Coronation Burton Island Burton

Burnett Rock Burnett

Basile Island Basile

Arthur Island Arthur Plantago debilis Muellerolimon salicorniaceum elegantissima Austrostipa barbata *Avena fatua *Avena arenarius Bromus diandrus *Bromus hordeaceus *Bromus rubens *Bromus sp. *Bromus brevifolia *Ehrharta calycina *Ehrharta longiflora *Ehrharta dielsii Eragrostis leporinum *Hordeum *Lolium perenne *Lolium rigidum *Lolium temulentum *Parapholis incurva *Phalaris canariensis *Phalaris minor *Phleum pratensis Setaria dielsii Spinifex longifolius virginicus Sporobolus Calandrinia calyptrata PLUMBAGINACEAE POACEAE PORTULACACEAE Plant name PLANTAGINACEAE

Inventory of the Land Conservation Values of the Houtman Abrolhos Islands 143

Appendix G

Uncle Margie Island Island Margie Uncle

wo Island wo T

ravia island ravia T

Three Island Three

The Coral Patch Coral The

Sweet Island Sweet

Stick Island Stick

Square Island Square

Sid Liddon Island Liddon Sid

Ship rock rock Ship

“Seven Islet” “Seven

Seven Island Seven

Sandy Island Sandy

Rotondella Island Rotondella

Robertson Island Robertson

Post office Island office Post Pelsaert Island Pelsaert

One Island One

Nook Island Nook

Newman Island Newman

Murray Island Murray Middle Island Middle

“Little Jackson Island” Jackson “Little

Lagoon Island Lagoon

Jon Jim Island Jim Jon Jackson Island Jackson

Iris Refuge Island Refuge Iris

Hummock Island Hummock

“Gun Islet” “Gun Gun Island Gun

Gregory Island Gregory

“Gaze Islet 1” Islet “Gaze

Gaze Island Gaze

Foale Island Foale Eight Island Eight

Davis Island Davis

Coronation Island Coronation Burton Island Burton

Burnett Rock Burnett Basile Island Basile

Arthur Island Arthur *Anagallis arvensis argyrophylla Grevillea Diplolaena grandiflora ferocissimum *Lycium esculentum *Lycopersicon Nicotiana occidentalis subsp. hesperis *Solanum nigrum Parietaria cardiostegia Parietaria debilis Nitraria billardierei Plant name PROTEACEAE RUTACEAE SOLANACEAE URTICACEAE ZYGOPHYLLACEAE PRIMULACEAE

144 Inventory of the Land Conservation Values of the Houtman Abrolhos Islands Appendix H

APPENDIX H

Code of conduct for visitors to Historical Sites at the Abrolhos Islands (Abrolhos Islands Consultative Council, 1995)

Code of Conduct for Visitors To Historical Sites at the Abrolhos Islands

Prepared by The Western Australian Maritime Museum

Summary

Do’s and don’ts for code of conduct for visitors to the Houtman Abrolhos in respect to Historic Areas: the ‘look but don’t touch’ approach:

DO • visit the area; • enjoy the uniqueness of the site/area; • appreciate the historic significance of the site/area; • inform the appropriate authorities of new discoveries; • inform the appropriate authorities of any observed alteration or damage to historic sites/areas whether by natural and/or other interference; • provide information on any new find and help the delegated authority (Director, Western Australian Museum) in following up the matter; • provide information on the whereabouts of relics or articles from a declared shipwreck if they or their present whereabouts have not been notified previously; • co-operate with an inspector authorised to carry out enquiries and site supervision under the State Maritime Archaeology Act 1973, and Commonwealth Historic Shipwrecks Act 1976; • notify appropriate authorities (i.e. Department of Maritime Archaeology, Western Australian Maritime Museum or Branch Curator, Geraldton Maritime Museum) of intention to visit the following sites: 1. Batavia wreck site 2. Beacon Island 3. West Wallabi Island – Slaughter Point sites Zeewijk wreck site 4. Gun Island; and • ensure that you seek advice regarding anchorages for large and small boats in the vicinity of wreck sites so that the wreck site, associated relics, physical and environmental features (reefs etc.) are not disturbed or damaged by boat anchors, mooring lines (etc.).

Note: MOORINGS

Large boats: Pleasure and/or charter boat operators should be given advice on appropriate (or designated) moorings sites in the vicinity of wreck sites such that the wreck site, associated relics, physical and

Inventory of the Land Conservation Values of the Houtman Abrolhos Islands 145 Appendix H

environmental features (reefs etc.) are not disturbed or damaged. [This also applies to submerged jetty sites, e.g. Pelsaert Island et al., (see Appendix I).]

Small boats: Small boat operators should be given advice on appropriate (or designated) mooring sites in the vicinity of wreck sites in shallower, more sheltered waters (e.g. Hadda), such that the wreck site, associated relics, physical and environmental features (reefs etc.) are not disturbed or damaged. • ensure that persons diving on wreck sites are familiar with the protective legislation • ensure that boat operators/divers are familiar with the dangers at particular wreck sites

Note: It should be stressed that all wreck sites in exposed reef locations i.e. Batavia, Zeewijk. Ocean Queen. Windsor and Ben Ledi are dangerous for divers and boat operators.

In parts of Europe, particularly where boating and/or diving may be hazardous, where accidents repeatedly occur, and where search and rescue is dependant on volunteer organisations, large public notices display local diving and boating restrictions. For example, divers using SCUBA and/or surface air supply must be able to produce on demand from a delegated authority evidence of certification to dive; must wear regulatory diving and safety equipment (e.g. wet/dry-suits, buoyancy compensators etc.); must not dive alone; may only dive in certain locations during restricted daylight hours so that search and rescue organisations are not put at risk; and so on. In some places e.g. the Swiss lakes, there are also restrictions related to minimum air and water temperatures recommended for diving.

If the Abrolhos Islands are to be opened up for regular tourism, it may be feasible to liaise with appropriate diving/boating authorities to devise a public notice relating to recommended diving standards and boating safety so that potential risks are minimised. • Ensure that divers are competent to dive on particular wreck sites. • Ensure that adequate safety provisions have been made for diving/boating (e.g. dive flags, flares, first- aid/oxy-viva resuscitation equipment etc.). • Ensure that adequate supplies of fresh water are carried on board boats and/or taken ashore. • Ensure that someone (e.g. OTC, volunteer rescue, etc.) is informed of your intended boating/diving movements. • Ensure all personal litter is taken with you when you leave. •Watch where you are walking on land so that relics (and natural fauna/flora) are not disturbed or damaged.

DO NOT • remove relics or articles, interfere with or damage declared historic wreck sites or sites not yet assessed; or • enter without a permit a declared prohibited zone round a wreck site; • take on to any wreck site spearfishing or salvage equipment unless permitted to do so; • remove relics or articles, interfere with or damage declared maritime archaeological sites (on land) or sites not yet assessed; or • carry out any digging or major earthworks within protected zones round declared maritime archaeological sites unless permitted to do so.

146 Inventory of the Land Conservation Values of the Houtman Abrolhos Islands Appendix H

Sites in the following areas have ‘protected zone’ restrictions: WALLABI GROUP • Beacon Island; • Long Island; •Traitors Island and other small islands of Morning Reef; and •West Wallabi. PELSAERT GROUP • Gun Island; • Middle Island; • Pelsaert Island; and • Do not take metal-detecting devices into any of the designated historic areas without approval from the Director, Western Australian Museum.

PLEASE HELP TO PROTECT OUR MARITIME HERITAGE FOR ALL TO ENJOY

Inventory of the Land Conservation Values of the Houtman Abrolhos Islands 147 Fisheries Management Papers

No. 1 The Report of the Southern Western Australian Shark Working Group. Chairman P.Millington (1986). No. 2 The Report of the Fish Farming Legislative Review Committee. Chairman P.Rogers (1986). No. 3 Management Measures for the Shark Bay Snapper 1987 Season. P. Millington (1986). No. 4 The Esperance Rock Lobster Working Group. Chairman A. Pallot (1986). No. 5 The Windy Harbour - Augusta Rock Lobster Working Group. Interim Report by the Chairman A. Pallot (1986). No. 6 The King George Sound Purse Seine Fishery Working Group. Chairman R. Brown (1986). No. 7 Management Measures for the Cockburn Sound Mussel Fishery. H. Brayford (1986). No. 8 Report of the Rock Lobster Industry Advisory meeting of 27 January 1987 . Chairman B. Bowen (1987). No. 9 Western Rock Lobster Industry Compensation Study. Arthur Young Services (1987). No. 10 Further Options for Management of the Shark Bay Snapper Fishery. P. Millington (1987). No. 11 The Shark Bay Scallop Fishery. L. Joll (1987). No. 12 Report of the Rock Lobster Industry Advisory Committee to the Hon Minister for Fisheries 24 September 1987. (1987) No. 13 A Development Plan for the South Coast Inshore Trawl Fishery. (1987) No. 14 Draft Management Plan for the Perth Metropolitan Purse Seine Fishery. P. Millington (1987). No. 15 Draft management plan, Control of barramundi gillnet fishing in the Kimberley. R. S. Brown (1988). No. 16 The South West Trawl Fishery Draft Management Plan. P. Millington (1988). No. 17 The final report of the pearling industry review committee . F.J. Malone, D.A. Hancock, B. Jeffriess (1988). No. 18 Policy for Freshwater Aquaculture in Western Australia. (1988) No. 19 Sport Fishing for Marron in Western Australia - Management for the Future. (1988) No. 20 The Offshore Constitutional Settlement, Western Australia 1988. No. 21 Commercial fishing licensing in Western Australia. (1989) No. 22 Economics and marketing of Western Australian pilchards. SCP Fisheries Consultants Pty Ltd (1988). No. 23 Management of the south-west inshore trawl fishery. N. Moore (1989) No. 24 Management of the Perth metropolitan purse-seine fishery. N. Moore (1989). No. 25 Rock Lobster Industry Advisory Committee report to the Minister for Fisheries November 1988. (1989) No. 26 A report on marron fishing in Western Australia. Chairman Doug Wenn MLC (1989). No. 27 A review of the Shark Bay pearling industry. Dr D.A.Hancock, (1989). No. 28 Southern demersal gillnet and longline fishery. (1989) No. 29 Distribution and marketing of Western Australian rock lobster. P. Monaghan (1989). No. 30 Foreign investment in the rock lobster industry. (1989) No. 31 Rock Lobster Industry Advisory Committee report to the Hon Minister for Fisheries September 1989. (1989) No. 32 Fishing Licences as security for loans. P. Rogers (1989) No. 33 Guidelines for by-laws for those Abrolhos Islands set aside for fisheries purposes. N. Moore (1989).

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No. 34 The future for recreational fishing - issues for community discussion. Recreational Fishing Advisory Committee (1990). No. 35 Future policy for charter fishing operations in Western Australia. P. Millington (1990). No. 36 Long term management measures for the Cockburn Sound restricted entry fishery. P. Millington (1990). No. 37 Western rock lobster industry marketing report 1989/90 season. MAREC Pty Ltd (1990). No. 38 The economic impact of recreational fishing in Western Australia. R.K. Lindner, P.B. McLeod (1991). No. 39 Establishment of a registry to record charges against fishing licences when used as security for loans. P. Rogers. (1991) No. 40 The future for Recreational Fishing - Forum Proceedings. Recreational Fishing Advisory Committee (1991) No. 41 The future for Recreational Fishing - The Final Report of the Recreational Fishing Advisory Committee. Recreational Fishing Advisory Committee (1991). No. 42 Appendix to the final report of the Recreational Fishing Advisory Committee. (1991) No. 43 A discussion of options for effort reduction. Southern Gillnet and Demersal Longline Fishery Management Advisory Committee (1991). No. 44 A study into the feasability of establishing a system for the buy-back of salmon fishing authorisations and related endorsements. (1991) No. 45 Draft Management Plan, Kimberley Prawn Fishery. (1991) No. 46 Rock Lobster Industry Advisory Committee, Chairman’s report to the Minister (1992) No. 47 Long term management measures for the Cockburn Sound restricted entry fishery. Summary of submissions and final recommendations for management. P. Millington (1992). No. 48 Pearl oyster fishery policy guidelines (Western Australian Pearling Act 1990). Western Australian Fisheries Joint Authority (1992). No. 49 Management plan, Kimberley prawn fishery. (1992) No. 50 Draft management plan, South West beach seine fishery. D.A. Hall (1993). No. 51 The west coast shark fishery, draft management plan. D.A. Hall (1993). No. 52 Review of bag and size limit proposals for Western Australian recreational fishers. F.B. Prokop (May 1993). No. 53 Rock Lobster Industry Advisory Committee, Chairman’s report to the Minister for Fisheries. (May 1993) No. 54 Rock Lobster Industry Advisory Committee, Management proposals for 1993/94 and 1994/95 western rock lobster season (July 1993). No. 55 Rock Lobster Industry Advisory Committee, Chairman’s report to the Minister for Fisheries on management proposals for 1993/94 and 1994/95 western rock lobster seasons (September 1993). No. 56 Review of recreational gill, haul and cast netting in Western Australia. F. B. Prokop (October 1993). No. 57 Management arrangements for the southern demersal gillnet and demersal longline fishery 1994/95 season. (October 1993). No. 58 The introduction and translocation of fish, crustaceans and molluscs in Western Australia. C. Lawrence (October 1993). No. 59 Proceedings of the charter boat management workshop (held as part of the 1st National Fisheries Manager Conference). A. E. Magee & F. B. Prokop (November 1993).

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No. 60 Bag and size limit information from around Australia (Regulations as at September 1993) F. B. Prokop (January 1993). No. 61 Economic impact study. Commercial fishing in Western Australia Dr P McLeod & C McGinley (October 1994) No. 62 Management arrangements for specimen shell collection in Western Australia. J. Barrington, G. Stewart (June 1994) No. 63 Management of the marine aquarium fish fishery. J. Barrington (June 1994) No. 64 The Warnbro Sound crab fishery draft management plan. F. Crowe (June 1994) No. 65 Not issued No. 66 Future management of recreational gill, haul and cast netting in Western Australia and summary of submissions to the netting review. F.B. Prokop, L.M. Adams (September 1994) No. 67 Long term management strategies for the Western Rock Lobster Fishery. (4 volumes) Evaluation of management options Volume 1. B. K. Bowen (September 1994) No. 68 Long term management strategies for the Western Rock Lobster Fishery. (4 volumes) Economic efficiency of alternative input and output based management systems in the western rock lobster fishery, Volume 2. R.K. Lindner (September 1994) No. 69 Long term management strategies for the Western Rock Lobster Fishery. (4 volumes) A market-based economic assessment for the western rock lobster industry, Volume 3. Marec Pty Ltd (September 1994) No. 70 Long term management strategies for the Western Rock Lobster Fishery. (4 volumes) Law enforcement considerations, Volume 4. N. McLaughlan (September 1994) No. 71 The Rock Lobster Industry Advisory Committee Chairman’s Report, October 1994, The Western Rock Lobster Fishery - Management proposals for the 1994/95 and 1995/96 seasons (November 1994) No. 72 Shark Bay World Heritage Area draft management plan for fish resources. D. Clayton (November 1994) No. 73 The bag and size limit review: new regulations and summary of submissions. F. Prokop (May 1995) No. 74 Report on future management options for the South West trawl limited entry fishery. South West trawl limited entry fishery working group (June 1995) No. 75 Implications of Native Title legislation for fisheries management and the fishing industry in Western Australia. P. Summerfield (February 1995) No. 76 Draft report of the South Coast estuarine fishery working group. South Coast estuarine fishery working group. (February 1995) No. 77 The Offshore Constitutional Settlement, Western Australia. H. Brayford & G. Lyon (May 1995) No. 78 The Best Available Information - Its Implications for Recreational Fisheries Management. Workshop at Second National Fisheries Managers Conference, Bribie Island Queensland. F. Prokop (May 1995) No. 79 Management of the Northern Demersal Scalefish Fishery. J. Fowler (June 1995) No. 80 Management arrangements for specimen shell collection in Western Australia, 1995. J. Barrington & C. Campbell (March 1996) No. 81 Management Options (Discussion Paper) for the Shark Bay Snapper Limited Entry Fishery. Shark Bay Snapper Limited Entry Fishery Working Group, Chaired by Doug Bathgate (June 1995) No. 82 The Impact of the New Management Package on Smaller Operators in the Western Rock Lobster Fishery R. Gould (September 1995)

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No. 83 Translocation Issues in Western Australia. Proceedings of a Seminar and Workshop held on 26 and 27 September 1994. F. Prokop (July 1995) No. 84 Bag and Size Limit Regulations From Around Australia. Current Information as at 1 July 1995. Third Australasian Fisheries Managers Conference, Rottnest Island. F. Prokop (July 1995) No. 85 West Coast Rock Lobster Fishery Management Plan 1995 - Draft for Public Comment. Edited by M. Moran (August 1995) No. 86 A Review of Ministerial Policy Guidelines for Rock Lobster Processing in Western Australia from the Working Group appointed by the Minister for Fisheries and chaired by Peter Rich (December 1995) No. 87 Same Fish - Different Rules. Proceedings of the National Fisheries Management Network Workshop held as part of the Third Australasian Fisheries Managers Conference. F. Prokop No. 88 Balancing the Scales - Access and Equity in Fisheries Management - Proceedings of the Third Australasian Fisheries Managers Conference, Rottnest Island, Western Australia 2 - 4 August 1995. Edited by P. Summerfield (February 1996) No. 89 Fishermen’s views on the future management of the rock lobster fishery. A report. Prepared on behalf of the Rock Lobster Industry Advisory Committee by The Marketing Centre. (August 1995) No. 90 A report on the issues effecting the use of the Dampier Archipelago. Peter Driscoll, Landvision Pty Ltd (March 1996) No. 91 Shark Bay World Heritage Property - Management Paper for Fish Resources. Kevin A Francesconi (September 1996) No. 92 Pearling and Aquaculture in the Dampier Archipelago - Existing and Proposed Operations. A report for public comment. Compiled by Ben Fraser (September 1996) No. 93 Shark Bay World Heritage Property - Summary of Public Submissions to the Draft Management Plan for Fish Resources. Kevin A Francesconi (September 1996) No. 94 Rock Lobster Industry Advisory Committee Report - Management arrangements for the Western Rock Lobster Fishery for the 1997/98 season. Frank Prokop (May 1997) No. 95 Australian Salmon and Herring Resource Allocation Committee. P McLeod & F Prokop (in press) No. 96 Summary Report of the Freshwater Aquaculture Taskforce (FAT) by Chris Wells (in press) No. 97 (in press) No. 98 A Pricing Policy for Fisheries Agencies - Standing Committee on Fisheries and Aquaculture Management Committee. P Millington (March 1997) No. 99 Management of the South Coast Purse Seine Fishery. J Fowler, R Lenanton, Kevin Donohue,M Moran & D Gaughan. No. 100 The Aquaculture of non-endemic species in Western Australia - Redclaw crayfish (Cherax quadricarinatus). Tina Thorne (June 1997) No. 101 Optimising the worth of the catch - Options and Issues. Marec Pty Ltd (September 1997) No. 102 Marine farm planning and consultation processes in Western Australia. Dave Everall (August 1997) No. 103 Future management of the aquatic charter industry in Western Australia by the Tour Operators Fishing Working Group (September 1997). No. 104 Management of the Houtman Abrolhos System (draft). Prepared by the Abrolhos Islands Management Advisory Committee in conjunction with Fisheries Western Australia (October 1997)

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No. 105 Plan for the Management of the Houtman Abrolhos Fish Habitat Protection Area (draft). Prepared by the Abrolhos Islands Management Advisory Committee in conjunction with Fisheries Western Australia (October 1997) No. 106 The impact of Occupational Safety and Health on the management of Western Australian Fisheries. Cameron Wilson (in press) No. 107 The Aquaculture of non-endemic species in Western Australia - Silver Perch (Bidyanus bidyanus). Tina Thorne (June 1997) No. 108 Issues affecting Western Australia’s inshore crab fishery - Blue swimmer crab (Portunus pelagicus), Sand crab (Ovalipes australiensis). Cathy Campbell (September 1997) No. 109 Abalone Aquaculture in Western Australia. Cameron Westaway & Jeff Norriss (October 1997) No. 110 Proposed Voluntary Fishery Adjustment Scheme - South Coast Purse Seine Managed Fishery Report by Committee of Management (October 1997) No. 111 Management Options for Pilbara Demersal Line Fishing. Gaye Looby (December 1997) No. 112 Summary of Submissions to Fisheries Management Paper No. 108 - issues affecting Western Australia’s inshore crab fishery. Compiled by Cathy Campbell (April 1998) No. 113 Western Rock Lobster Management - Options and Issues. Prepared by Kevin Donohue on behalf of the Rock Lobster Industry Advisory Committee. (June 1998) No. 114 A Strategy for the Future Management of the Joint Authority Northern Shark Fishery. Prepared by Tim Bray and Jo Kennedy. (June 1998) No. 115 Guidelines for granting Aquaculture Leases. Prepared by Fisheries WA, the Aquaculture Development Council & the Aquaculture Council of WA. (July 1998) No. 116 Future Management of the Aquatic Charter Industry in Western Australia - Final Report. By the Tour Operators Fishing Working Group (September 1998) No.117 Management of the Houtman Abrolhos System. Prepared by the Abrolhos Islands Management Advisory Committee in conjunction with Fisheries Western Australia. (December 1998) No. 118 Plan for the Management of the Houtman Abrolhos Islands Fish Habitat Protection Area (Schedule 1) No. 119 Access to Wildstock for Aquaculture Purposes (not published) No. 120 Draft Management Plan for Sustainable Tourism at the Houtman Abrolhos Islands. Prepared by LeProvost, Dames and Moore for the Abrolhos Islands Managment Advisory Committee in conjunction with Fisheries WA. (December 1998) No. 121 Future Directions for Tourism at the Houtman Abrolhos Islands - Draft for Public Comment. Prepared by LeProvost, Dames and Moore for the Abrolhos Islands Management Advisory Committee in conjunction with Fisheries WA. (December 1998) No. 122 Opportunities for the Holding/Fattening/Processing and Aquaculture of Western Rock Lobster (Panulirus cygnus). A discussion paper compiled by Fisheries WA. (November 1998) No. 123 Future directions for the Rock Lobster Industry Advisory Committee and the Western Rock Lobster Managed Fishery. A discussion paper prepared by Kevin Donohue on behalf of the Rock Lobster Industry Advisory Committee. (December 1998) No. 124 A Quality Future for Recreational Fishing in the Gascoyne. Proposals for Community Discussion. A five-year management strategy prepared by the Gascoyne Recreational Fishing Working Group (May 1999).

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No. 125 Changes to Offshore Constitutional Settlement Arrangements; North West Slope Trawl Fishery and Western Deepwater Trawl Fishery. A discussion paper by Fiona Crowe and Jane Borg (May 1999)[not published] No. 126 The South Coast Estuarine Fishery. A discussion paper by Rod Pearn and Tony Cappelluti. (May 1999) No. 127 The Translocation of Barramundi. A discussion paper by Makaira Pty Ltd.[July 1999] No. 128 Shark Bay Pink Snapper Managed Fisheries in WA No. 129 Review of the Western Australian Pilchard Fishery 12 - 16 April 1999. Prepared by K.L. Cochrane, Fisheries Resource Division, Food and Agriculture Division of the United Nations (November 1999) No. 130 Developing New Fisheries in Western Australia. A guide to applicants for developing fisheries Compiled by Lucy Halmarick (November 1999) No. 131 Management Directions for Western Australia’s Estuarine and Marine Embayment Fisheries. A strategic approach to management (November 1999) No. 132 Summary of Submissions to Fisheries Management Paper No. 126 - The South Coast Estuarine Fishery - A Discussion Paper. Compiled by Rod Pearn (November 1999) No. 133 Abalone Aquaculture in Western Australia, A Policy Guideline (December 1999) No. 134 Management Directions for WA’s Coastal Commercial Finfish Fisheries. Issues and proposals for community discussion (March 2000) No. 135 Protecting and Sharing Western Australia’s Coastal Fish Resources. The path to integrated management. Issues and proposals for community discussion (March 2000) No. 136 Management Directions for WA’s Recreational Fisheries (March 2000) No. 137 Aquaculture Plan for the Houtman Abrolhos Islands (April 2000) No. 138 Information on Quota Management of Rock Lobster Fisheries in South Australia, Tasmania and New Zealand. By Kevin Donohue and Eric Barker (May 2000) No. 139 A Quality Future for Recreational Fishing on the West Coast. Proposals for Community Discussion. A five-year management strategy prepared by the West Coast Recreational Fishing Working Group (June 1999) No. 140 Aquaculture Plan for the Recherche Archipelago, Western Australia. (June 2000) No. 141 Fish Protection Measures in Western Australia (June 2001) No. 142 Fisheries Environmental Management Plan for the Gascoyne Region (June 2002) No. 143 Western Rock Lobster. Discussion paper for seasons 2001/2002 and 2002/2003 (July 2000) No. 144 The Translocation of Brown Trout (Salmo trutta) and Rainbow Trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) into and within Western Australia. Prepared by Jaqueline Chappell, contributions from Simon Hambleton, Dr Howard Gill, Dr David Morgan and Dr Noel Morrissy. (not published, superseded by MP 156) No. 145 The Aquaculture of non-endemic species in Western Australia - Silver Perch (Bidyanus bidyanus). As amended October 2000. Tina Thorne. This replaces Fisheries Management Paper No. 107. No. 146 Sustainable Tourism Plan for the Houtman Abrolhos Islands (February 2001) No. 147 Draft Bycatch Action Plan for the Shark Bay Prawn Managed Fishery (Full Report) (April 2002) No. 148 Draft Bycatch Action Plan for the Shark Bay Prawn Managed Fishery (Summary Report) (April 2002) No. 149 Final Plan of Management for the Lancelin Island Lagoon Fish Habitat Protection Area (March 2001)

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No. 150 Draft Plan of Management for the Cottesloe Reef Proposed Fish Habitat Protection Area (April 2001) No. 151 Inventory of the Land Conservation Values of the Houtman Abrolhos Islands (July 2003) No. 152 Guidelines for the Establishment of Fish Habitat Protection Areas (June 2001) No. 153 A Five-Year Management Strategy for Recreational Fishing on the West Coast of Western Australia. Final Report of the West Coast Recreational Fishing Working Group (August 2001). No. 154 A Five-Year Management Strategy for Recreational Fishing in the Gascoyne. Final Report of the Gascoyne Recreational Fishing Working Group (September 2001) No. 155 Plan of Management for the Cottesloe Reef Fish Habitat Protection Area (September 2001) No. 156 The Translocation of Brown Trout (Salmo Trutta) and Rainbow Trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) into and within Western Australia (June 2002) No. 157 Policy for the Implementation of Ecologically Sustainable Development for Fisheries and Aquaculture within Western Australia. By W.J. Fletcher (May 2002) No. 158 Draft Plan of Management for the Miaboolya Beach Fish Habitat Protection Area (March 2002) No. 159 The Translocation of Barramundi (Lates calcarifer) for Aquaculture and Recreational Fishery Enhancement in Western Australia. By Tina Thorne. No. 160 The Introduction and Aquaculture of Non-endemic Species in Western Australia: the ‘Rotund’Yabby Cherax rotundus and the All-male Hybrid Yabby. A Discussion Paper. (June 2002) No. 161 Plan of Management for the Miaboolya Beach Fish Habitat Protection Area (September 2002) No. 162 Reseeding of grazing gastropods and bivalves into the marine environment in Western Australia – a discussion paper. By Jane Borg. No. 163 Review of recreational take of coral in Western Australia – a discussion paper October 2002. No. 164 Report of the Mackerel Independent Advisory Panel to the Executive Director, Department of Fisheries, on criteria for access to, and management arrangements for, the proposed Mackerel Fishery (Interim) Management Plan (November 2002) No. 165 Report to the Minister for Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries by the Integrated Fisheries Management Review Committee (November 2002) No. 166 Fisheries Statutory Management Authority Inquiry. A background paper (February 2003) No. 167 Draft Fisheries Environmental Management Plan for the Northern Region (in press) No. 168 Aboriginal Fishing Strategy: Report to the Minister for Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries by the Hon E. M. Franklyn QC, Chairman of the Aboriginal Fishing Strategy Working Group No. 169 Hardy Inlet discussion paper (in press) No. 170 Management of the proposed Geographe Bay Blue Swimmer and Sand Crab Managed Fishery. By Jane Borg and Cathy Campbell (August 2003) No. 171 Draft Aquaculture Plan for Shark Bay (in press) No. 172 Draft Aquaculture Plan for Exmouth Gulf (in press) No. 173 Draft Plan of Management for the proposed Point Quobba Fish Habitat Protection Area (August 2003)

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